Georgia Cancer Specialists and Northside Hospital are hosting the 15th annual totes 2 tots drive to collect backpacks and suitcases for foster children in Georgia.
Donations of new or nearly new backpacks, duffel bags and suitcases will be accepted at locations across the state:
Thursday, Jan. 12, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., GCS Camp Creek and Hawkinsville locations.
Friday, Jan. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., all other GCS locations in Georgia.
Saturday, Jan. 14, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., New Apostolic Church, Columbus.
More than 13,000 children, from infants to teenagers, are currently in the foster care system in Georgia. Many of these children shuffle their belongings in garbage bags when they are removed from their homes. totes 2 tots aims to change that by giving every foster child in Georgia a new or gently used backpack, duffel bag or suitcase.
Since totes 2 tots launched in 2003, the annual volunteer event has collected and distributed more than 48,000 bags.
GCS and Northside Hospital partner with the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services to distribute the bags in the counties in which they’re collected. Bobby Cagle, director of DFCS, praised those who support the program, which helps to bring a measure of comfort and respect to Georgia’s foster children.
“The totes 2 tots program allows foster children the ability to transport their belongings with a sense of dignity,” said Cagle. “By providing backpacks and luggage, the program offers a sense of stability during a time of uncertainty.”
For more information about totes 2 tots and a list of drop-off locations, visit www.fb.com/totes2tots. To make a secure online donation, visit give.northside.com/totes2tots.
