As the new school year begins, families are busy shopping for essentials like shoes, pants, and backpacks. However, for foster families welcoming new foster children into their homes, the shopping list can be even longer. Oftentimes, foster kids arrive with only the clothes on their backs, highlighting the need for additional support. This is where organizations like Spreading Threads step in to make a difference by providing free and fashionable clothing to foster kids, helping to boost their confidence and sense of belonging.
Spreading Threads has been serving Pima County and Southern Arizona’s foster families for 15 years. The organization was founded by a couple who fostered and adopted four children, recognizing the lack of resources available for foster kids in need of clothing. Michele Wright, one of the founders, saw the opportunity to make a difference and took action. She understood the importance of providing foster kids with more than just basic necessities, aiming to make them feel valued and cared for.
The organization offers gently used or new clothes to foster kids ranging from newborns to 18-year-olds. Wright emphasizes the importance of ensuring that foster kids leave with essential items like socks, shoes, underwear, pajamas, and comfort items like stuffed animals. By providing these items, Spreading Threads aims to not only meet the practical needs of foster kids but also to make them feel special and valued during a challenging time in their lives.
One foster parent, Genevieve Clayton, has been receiving resources from Spreading Threads since 2013. Clayton, who eventually adopted her two foster children, understands the financial strain that comes with fostering. Despite receiving a monthly stipend for each foster child, she acknowledges that it is never enough to cover all the expenses, from diapers to transportation to various appointments and therapies. Organizations like Spreading Threads play a crucial role in alleviating some of the financial burdens faced by foster families.
In addition to providing clothing, Spreading Threads also focuses on allowing foster kids to express themselves freely. Recognizing that foster kids may already be going through a traumatic experience by being removed from their homes, the organization offers gender-inclusive sizing and encourages kids to choose items that reflect their individuality. By doing so, Spreading Threads helps foster kids maintain their dignity and feel special during their time at the organization.
Spreading Threads is always in need of donations, particularly socks and underwear in all sizes. By contributing to the organization, individuals can directly impact the lives of foster kids in their community. Through the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers, Spreading Threads continues to make a positive impact on the fostering community, one piece of clothing at a time.