Welcome Kits

One of the most frightening times in the life of a child occurs when they are separated from their parents. It is very upsetting for children, even if they are well-prepared and are being cared for temporarily by someone they know and trust.

When circumstances require a child be removed from his or her family and placed in a foster home, however, we cannot really imagine the fear and upset that are created. No matter how caring and supportive a social worker and foster parent are, a child is seriously affected when such steps are necessary for his or her safety and protection.

There are ways to help make the situation a little less frightening and upsetting for a child.

What is a Welcome Kit?

A Welcome Kit contains a few necessities and comforting items that a child may not have thought about packing before a hurried move to a foster home. Kits are delivered to the child in a small plastic container or in a back pack.

Where Did the Idea Come From:

A group of Youth in care of the Simcoe County Children's Aid Society met last year, recalling some of their individual personal circumstances. They decided that there were things that could have been done differently to make their experience of coming into Foster Care a little less painful. One suggestion that this group made to the Agency was to develop a Welcome Kit.

How Can You Help?

The Simcoe County Children's Aid Society brought 450 children into foster care during 1999. Our goal is to give each child a Welcome Kit when they are taken into care. However, we need your help to reach our goal.

If you would like to donate a kit to a child, you can purchase the appropriate items and place them in a plastic container or a backpack. You may then deliver the kit to the CAS office closest to you, call 726-6587, ext. 252, to arrange for a pick up or email us.

Here are some suggestions for Welcome Kits
Preschool Children School-aged children Teens
brush and comb brush and comb brush and comb
socks and underwear socks and underwear socks and underwear
toothbrush/toothpaste toothbrush/toothpaste toothbrush/toothpaste
small photo frame small photo frame small photo frame
small stuffed animal small stuffed animal deodorant
crayons/markers & coloring book crayons/markers & coloring book pens/pencils & notebook
stickers stickers shampoo
bubble blowing set notebook & pen notebook & pen
blanket Pokemon anything Female - sanitary pads and tampons
Female - barettes, hair accessories Female - hair accessories, scrunchies Female - bubble bath/hand cream
Male - toy cars/trucks Male - small toys/games Female - razors
Male - razors & shaving cream
Male - deodorant & after shave