Wishlist

I've mentioned in the past that Derek and I work through Youthville for foster parenting and while I will always encourage my fellow Christian families to also consider fostering, I understand it's not for everyone. I've had questions recently about if there are other ways to help. In the latest newsletter there was a list of Youthville's wishlist. Youthville works very hard to support foster families, foster children and birth families. Each time we have gotten a new foster child they have come to our house with only the clothes on their back, a diaper and maybe one other outfit. This can sometimes be a burden for the foster family and the children coming into care that have not only had to leave their family but also their belongings. Youthville steps in to help by offering a lot of items and supplies to their families for free. To provide this service they need the help of the community (that's YOU!) in bringing things in. The following is just some of the items on Youthville's current wishlist....

• Diapers (all sizes)
• Baby Formula
• Baby Wipes
• Diaper Bags
• Baby Bottles
• Baby Toys
• Dressers
• Beds
• New Car Seats
• African-American Hair Products
• Bath Soap
• Disposable Razors
• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Lotion
• New Underwear
• Personal Hygiene Products
• Sports/Recreation Equipment
• Arts and Crafts Supplies
• Clothing (6-18 Years)
• Games
• Three Ring Binders
• Loose Leaf Paper
• Pens
• Tape
• Construction Paper
• Books (1st Grade and up)
• Socks (all sizes, especially teen)
• Sheet Sets
• Bath Towels
• Brooms
• Kitchen Towels
• Mixing Bowls
• Laundry Baskets
• $25 Wal-Mart Cards
• Rubbermaid Tubs
• Suitcases
• AA, AAA, C, D Batteries
• Trash Bags
• Calculators
• Glue Sticks

Here's what Youthville says about their list...

"We need your help to provide the following items listed in order of greatest need. You may drop off all "Wish List" items directly to the Newton, Dodge City and Wichita locations."

There is one exception.....clothing. The Wichita office has partnered with Open Door Klothes Kloset to provide free clothing for children in foster care.  Please take all new or gently used clothing donations to the Klothes Kloset at 228 Ellis Street in Wichita.

So, I KNOW that if you're like me that there are times you find yourself trying to wade through your kids' rooms and wondering where did all this stuff come from!?!  So, box it up, take it to Youthville or Open Door Klothes Kloset and make a difference.

If you're unsure where to go or don't think you'll be by any of the locations I would be happy to take your donations off your hands and drop them off the next time I'm at Youthville. I promise these items make a difference to children who have lost everything and to families who have made the sacrifice of opening their home to children in need.

And because you deserve a little cuteness...