The Village Foster Closet supports children in care by providing essential items with dignity and compassion.
Did you know? Over 390,000 children are in foster care in the U.S. at any given time, and in New Jersey, more than 4,000 kids are navigating the system each year. Many enter care with just a trash bag of belongings… or nothing at all.
That’s why The Village exists. And why you can help.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, scout leader, community organizer, or just someone who wants to do good, hosting a donation drive for The Village Foster Closet is one of the most meaningful ways to support children in care and the families stepping up to love them.
But here’s the truth: not all donations are helpful.
So let’s talk about how to host a drive that’s useful, impactful, and full of dignity, just like the experience we aim to give every child who walks through our doors.
Step One: Know What We Actually Need
The Village isn’t a dumping ground for used stuff. It’s a store-like space where kids can choose things they love, without judgment and at zero cost to their foster family.
That means we prioritize:
- Shoes (current styles, all sizes, gently worn or new)
- Gift cards for teens (Target, Amazon, Walmart, etc.)
- New underwear & socks (still in packaging, please!)
- Baby items (diapers, wipes, formula, car seats not expired)
- New or like-new clothing (seasonal, trendy, unstained, no holes)
- Toiletries (full-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrushes, pads/tampons)
Step Two: Educate Before You Collect
Set your drive apart by helping donors understand why this matters.
Here’s a message you can share: “When a child enters foster care, it often happens fast. Most arrive with nothing. The Village Foster Closet provides dignity-packed essentials to help foster families say ‘yes’, without the stress. We’re collecting practical, high-quality items to support local kids in Monmouth and Ocean County.”
This makes a huge difference. When people understand the “why,” they give with more care.
Step Three: Set Up Smart Drop-Off Systems
Don’t just throw a bin in the lobby and call it done.
Get creative:
- Host a “Pack the Trunk” event in your school or church parking lot
- Use branded signs to label bins (e.g., “New Socks Here!”)
- Offer incentives: “Donate 3 items, get a thank-you treat!”
- Make it fun: play music, hand out flyers, involve kids
Consider having donation “themes” each week: one week for hygiene, one for baby items, one for teen gear, etc. Keeps momentum going.
Step Four: Promote, Promote, Promote
Use your voice! Here’s where to shout out your drive:
- Instagram & Facebook (tag @TheVillageFosterCloset if possible)
- Local Facebook groups (especially mom/parent groups)
- Flyers on community boards, libraries, coffee shops
- School or church newsletters
- Email blasts
Even better? Tell a short story. Share about why you’re hosting or about a child who once showed up with only pajamas and left The Village with a full wardrobe and a smile.
People don’t give to causes, they give to people. Your story matters.
Step Five: Coordinate Delivery with The Village
Once your drive is done (yay, go you!), reach out to us to arrange a drop-off or pickup time.
We’re based in Point Pleasant and serve foster families across Monmouth County, Ocean County, and beyond.
Our storage space is limited, so communication helps us prepare for your donation and ensure every item gets sorted, loved, and used.
You can contact us here at thevillagefostercloset@gmail.com
Final Tip: It’s Not Just About Stuff
Yes, clothes matter. So do toothbrushes, jackets, and backpacks.
But what we’re really giving is dignity. Choice. A moment of normalcy for The Village foster children who’ve had so much out of their control.
Your donation drive can be part of something bigger, a community that shows up for kids when it counts most.
Ready to Start?
Visit The Village NJ to get involved. Download flyers, check the wishlist or let us know about your upcoming drive.
Because it takes a Village and we’re so glad you’re part of ours.
