Basic Items, Blankets and Pajamas Needed for Macomb County Foster Children

ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI — There are almost 900 children in foster care every year, and many of them are in need of basic essentials such as socks, toothbrushes and shower gel. The Optimist Club of St. Clair Shores collects not only these necessities, but also focuses on some overlooked items, such as pajamas and a cuddly blanket, Macomb Daily reports.

Along with basic items, the club is collecting pajamas and blankets to help support Friends of Foster Kids, a nonprofit organization that helps foster children in Macomb County. Additionally, they're asking for donations of gently-used and new suitcases or duffel bags for children to collect their things in.

“It truly takes a village of angels working together to make a positive impact on the lives of our foster children,” said Theresa Toia, Friends of Foster Kids president. “Help us show them that they do matter.”

Residents are asked to donate: pajamas or sleep pants and T-shirts (newborn to XXXL adult); sweatshirts (all children sizes up to XXXL adult); gloves; socks; pillows and pillowcases; throw blankets and personal care products including shampoo, shower gel, deodorant; toothbrushes and toothpaste, mouth wash; comfort toys such as craft items, coloring books, art supplies and bracelet-making kits, Macomb Daily says.

There will be three collection sites set up from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, until Dec. 1. They are: Lakeview Public Schools Administration Building, 27575 Harper Avenue; South Lake Schools Administration Building, 23101 Stadium Boulevard and Lake Shore Administration Building, 28850 Harper Avenue.

To learn more about the The Optimist Club, Friends of Foster Kids, and the drive, check out the Macomb Daily article here.

Photo courtesy of A Healthier Michigan/Flickr