Stuff a Duffel program in the works for foster kids in Pocatello
When kids are placed into foster care they often go with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Two women in Pocatello want to change that with a new program called “Stuff a Duffel.”
The idea originally started in Twin Falls and was a success. Now two local women are hoping it can work here in Pocatello, too.
Because she’s a foster mom herself and know what little kids come in with, Tiffany Stringham said that’s her motivation behind doing the project.
“What we’re trying to do is give them something that will make that transition into a foster home a little bit easier,” Stringham said.
In the bags they to include basic everyday items kids would need like toothbrushes and toothpaste, combs, and soap. They also add personal items such as blankets, coloring books and crayons, and stuffed animals or small toys.
The bags aren’t just a one-time thing.
“The great thing about ‘Stuff a Duffel’ is that whatever comes in those duffel bags goes with those kids wherever they go,” Stringham said. “And so it doesn’t matter if they go back home to their parents, if they go to a relative, if they stay in foster care, they have something that is all their own that they don’t ever have to let go of.”
While the bags can’t change the often rough circumstances the kids come from, it’s a personal touch that makes a difference.
“I kind of look at it that although it’s not going to completely solve what they’re going through, it will help them in the time that they might need those things,” said Tara Wright, one of the organizers of the program in Pocatello.
Wright and Stringham said it’s not only a good thing for the kids, but for them as well.
“It makes me feel good,” Wright said. “I like the thought that the backpacks are going to help. Wherever the kids are at, they can hopefully use it.”
Wright said they have anywhere from 100 to 120 kids in the system every day and more are always coming in. They say they’ll continue working to get as many bags as possible for all the kids coming in.
They’re hoping people in the community will want to help out and donate items that can be used for the bags.
Donations can be dropped off at the Health and Welfare Child Services Department at 1070 Hiline Road, Suite 120, in Pocatello.
For questions on what you could donate or how you can help, you can email them at seidahostuffaduffle@yahoo.com.
If you would like more information on what, and how, to donate you can also check out their Facebook page..
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Stuff-A-Duffle-Southeast-Idaho-1645753745712404/?fref=ts
