Housewarming baskets are a thoughtful way to make sure that older youth in foster care have the basic necessities they need to start living independently. It’s a huge challenge to outfit a first apartment from scratch and purchase basic household goods, cleaning supplies, and kitchen items with little to no income and no family support. Generous individuals or organizations can make a real difference!
Donating these everyday household goods can help young adults in foster care get off to a better start in life. Your gift of these everyday essentials can help a foster youth overcome many of the challenges that often lead to housing instability and food insecurity and focus on higher education and elevating themselves.
- Individuals or families.
- Corporate teams, church or youth groups, community organizations.
- Teens earning service hours for shopping, travel time, and assembling baskets.
- Purchase the household goods – Everything must be brand NEW!
- Fill the basket – Fill a laundry basket, clothes hamper, storage bin, or large bag.
- Deliver the completed housewarming baskets – Contact Fairfax County Foster Care and Adoption at DFSIndependentLiving@fairfaxcounty.gov to coordinate shipping or delivery. Donations will not be accepted without prior arrangements.
Can’t fill a basket, but still want to help? Contact us for suggestions.
- Trash bags, trash can
- Cleaning supplies (vacuum, broom, mop, dustpan, microfiber cloths, all-purpose cleaner, etc.)
- Dishwasher/laundry detergent
- Shower curtains and towels
- Sheets, blankets, and comforters
- Toiletries (hand and bath soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, etc.)
- Laundry basket, clothes hamper
- Kitchen towels, dishcloths, sponges
- Cooking utensils, pots and pans, silverware
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Storage containers, potholders
- Paper products
- Spices and pantry items.
We appreciate your generous donations and support!
Please email Fairfax County Fostering Futures Unit at DFSIndependentLiving@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-7639 for more information. Download and share our flyer!