Duffle Bags and More sale to benefit kids in foster care July 2

A newly formed 501c3 nonprofit, Duffle Bags and More Inc., previously known as the Lower Delaware Duffle Bag Project, will continue supporting children in foster care by making and providing a new duffle bag, toiletries bag and stuffed toy for each child. The bags are given to children by caseworkers of the Delaware Division of Family Services during the removal process.

To raise funds to continue the project, volunteers make utility bags to sell. A sale of these bags is set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday, July 2, at G&E Hocker’s Supermarket, 695 Bethany Loop, Bethany Beach.

It’s terribly sad to think of children being taken from their homes, often due to a situation they can’t control or even understand. But it is even sadder when one realizes they are asked to pack their belongings into a black plastic garbage bag. It’s easy to imagine that children begin to lose their dignity and begin to feel unimportant. Yet this is the reality for some children today, without the efforts of Duffle Bags and More Inc.

Debbie Fratella, board president, said, “While children in the foster care system remain our first priority, the creation of Duffle Bags and More Inc. allows us to broaden our array of services. We now have the opportunity to assist other clients, such as graduates from drug rehabilitation programs, victims of domestic abuse, and the homeless. Please come to support us on July 2 at Hocker’s and learn more about our work.”

For information about volunteering or donating, contact Debbie Fratella by emailing DufflesMore@gmail.com.