According to a USDA report, the average family spends between $12,000 and $14,000 on child-related expenses per year. The State of NJ provides between $8,400 and $10,800 per year per child in Foster Care (from Embrella.com). The Foster Parent receives this stipend as a reimbursement for the previous month, so the first month you have a child in your home you are required to spend your own money and then be reimbursed. Foster Parents often spend well over the monthly $700 to $900, especially in the first month, when a child often needs a lot of items. The Village of Children and Families helps to bridge that gap by providing clothing, shoes and personal care items to last at least that first month, so that the parents can focus on the child's interests and offer them new experiences.
Started by two local Moms trying to make a difference, The Village of Children and Families, is a NJ nonprofit that provides necessities and comforts directly to children entering Foster Care. The Village also supplies ongoing community support for local Foster Families. The group began collecting donations in September and has been inundated with new toys, blankets, personal hygiene products and clothing for infants, children & teens. They have assembled more than 50 "Bright Side Bags," which are delivered directly to the Foster Family shortly after the child arrives.
Since COVID-19 began, The Village of Children and Family has had to pause second hand donations. They now rely solely on financial donations and items purchased from their Amazon Wishlist. They are very thankful for the community's continued support. Foster Care has not stopped during this time, children are still being removed from abusive and neglectful homes and Foster Parents are still welcoming new children into their homes.
Currently, The Village of Children and Families is looking for a space of at least 500 square feet. It would provide a central drop-off point for donations in the future, a place where they can sort items, fill the bags and also serve as a location for future support group meetings for licensed Foster Parents. They plan to offer ongoing support to the families and would like to open the space up so foster families can regularly “shop” from the space; selecting clothing and other personal items with their foster children, free of charge.
If you are someone (or know of someone) who might be able to donate such space, please connect with The Village of Children and Families via their website: www.TheVillageofChildrenandFamiles.org
