On any given day, there are more than 2000 children in RI living in a foster care placement.

10 minutes. That may be all the time a child being removed from their home or moved to another foster placement has to pack their entire life. Too often into a trash bag. You know that this is not acceptable.

This year, the pandemic has led to canceling the annual Duffle Bag Bash that we all look forward to.  However, you can still help us make a difference for thousands of children with your donation today. Between now and August 9 our goal is to collect $30,000 to make life better for children in foster care.

We may not be able to gather in person but together we can be sure that no child will move with a trash bag and that children in foster care have childhood experiences that every child deserves.

Since its inception, thousands of children and youth have received a suitcase and the sense of knowing that they matter that comes with your gift.  

Your donation today will help a child in foster care!

In the words of Jennifer Griffith, Child Advocate and one of the event sponsors:

“The Duffle Bag Bash has come a long way since 2016!  I recall seeing Lise Iwon, my former law professor, at the RI Bar Association meeting that summer and catching her up on what then was my new position as the Child Advocate.   Then, having a coffee with Darlene Allen led to us planning the first Duffle Bag Bash in August 2016.   I am so thankful for everyone who has come and enjoyed a great day with us for the past four summers.  However, this year is a little different due to the pandemic.  But, the needs of children and young adults in state care have only amplified.  

 Your donation toward a duffle bag or a gift card will immediately have a positive effect upon a child or young adult.  The donations and gift cards that we distribute each year provide basic needs- a warm coat in the winter, underwear and socks for a child who has none, or assistance to a young adult who is starting their own household at 18.   Please consider that each day children and young adults are removed from their homes, many having little to no items to take with them.  On behalf of the Office of the Child Advocate, we truly appreciate your continued support and we are already looking forward to our bash in August 2021!”

While we don’t have the ability to collect actual suitcases or duffle bags this year, donations will be used to purchase them and they will be distributed to children and youth.

Donations of gift cards (especially Walmart, Target and grocery stores) will give children and youth to receive essentials and items that we may take for granted are part of every childhood—like new clothes for school or sports equipment.

Donations will also provide Childhood experiences and activities to bring siblings separated in care together.

Make your donation today.

If you would like to send gift cards or a check, please mail to Adoption RI at:

Adoption RI
PO Box 6411
Providence, RI 02940

For more information or to otherwise help, please email Bridget at Adoption RI - [email protected]