Donation Drives

We partner with individuals as well as corporate, civic, and religious organization volunteers to support vulnerable children through donation drives. Discover our most successful and popular projects—and decide how you want to get involved.

Donation Packages

Fostering Hope Packages
Many children enter foster care with little more than the clothes on their backs. A Fostering Hope package gives a child something to call their own while waiting for a placement. This program gives abused and neglected children a book, a toy, personal hygiene items, and a little hope in their own new duffel bag.

Storytime Bags
These simple bags are decorated by volunteers and include two copies of an easy-to-read book. One book goes to a child in foster or kinship care, and the other one goes to their parent, which allows them to read together on a video or phone call. This is so important for parents who are in recovery or want to build/maintain connections with their kids!

Birthday Bags
With everything going on in the lives of foster and kinship youth, taking the time to put together a birthday celebration can sometimes be difficult. Our pre-packed birthday bags take the work out of planning so kids and families can just focus on the fun. Bags include everything needed for a great day, from cards and easy-to-make cakes to decorations and age-appropriate gifts.

Other Donation Ideas

Kids Matter is grateful for your support and is open to working with you and your group to make your drive a success. We’d love to hear your ideas! Here is some inspiration from drives that have been done in the past:
 
  • Holiday gifts
  • School supplies
  • Winter coats
  • Hats and gloves/mittens
  • Art supplies for therapy 
  • Blankets
Homestead High-Club SHIFT
Alexander Mitchell Elementary
Thanks, WTMJ!
Hamilton High School
Gifford Middle School
Easter Baskets for Foster Children
Wisconsin Lutheran College
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can we collect items not listed above? 

Yes! All items must be safe and age-appropriate; feel free to be creative. You can contact us at [email protected] anytime to check in about your idea.

What do we do with the donations?

Please call us at (414) 344-1220 or send us an email. It may be best to drop off items at our offices, or we may be able to pick them up.

Can my group do this together?

Definitely! These are all great projects for groups, and the Storytime Bags and Birthday Bags are especially great for students.