Foster Pantry's programs are designed to ease the transitions of children in foster care, from the time they enter care up until 6 months after they transition out of care whether it be reunification, adoption, guardianship, or aging out.
Our programming restores:
DIGNITY
to children in foster care
HOPE
to youth aging out of foster care
ENCOURAGEMENT
to those caring for children in foster care
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In 2017 Foster Pantry began as a small foster family run foster closet that provided gently used "hand me downs" to children from a garage. Still the heart of our programming, our Fostering Essentials programming now provides primarily brand-new essential items to youth in foster care.
New Placement Comfort Bag
Providing youth with essential items when they first enter foster care, including but not limited to; clothing, toiletries, toys, bedding, books, school supplies and gift cards for teens to shop for their favorite items,
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Foster Closet
Our closet is located in the Harrelson Center in Downtown Wilmington with over 1000 square feet of shopping space filled with NEW essential items. Requests for youth can be made at any time they are in care, as needs change or seasonal needs.
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In 2024 we added a satellite location in Onslow county.
NAS Infant Kit
A kit specifically designed for infants diagnosed with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome to assist with regulation and soothing of the infant. The heart of this program is the MamaRoo swing, which we offer to families on a loaner program.
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Sponsored by:
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Fostering Connections is dedicated to building the connections our caregivers and youth need to thrive. It supports the adults caring for children in foster care, providing a comprehensive support system to help caregivers navigate the challenges and joys of fostering. It also provides foster families outings and sibling playdates for siblings separated in foster care to give the youth and caregivers a sense of belonging.
Caregiver Support and Education
Providing the opportunity for caregivers to connect with other foster parents in a safe and supportive environment to share experiences, ask questions, and offer encouragement.
Educational Trainings provide valuable knowledge and skills on the topics relevant to foster care, such as child development, trauma-informed care, and legal issues.
Resource
Navigation
Connecting caregivers and youth to essential resources in our community, such as, financial assistance, healthcare providers, and educational opportunities for foster children.
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As a partner of The Harrelson Center Campus of Nonprofits, our families have priority referrals to resources like the HELP HUB.
Family Outings & Sibling Playdates
Creating lasting memories and strengthening family bonds through fun and engaging outings for foster families to enjoy together and with other foster families.
Our sibling playdates facilitate the connections between siblings who may be separated in foster care, promoting a sense of normalcy and belonging.
Fostering Forward is designed to empower youth transitioning out of foster care and those who have already aged to achieve independence and success. We recognize the unique challenges faced by this population and offer a supportive network and practical resources to help them thrive.
social &
wellness
activities
Providing social activities to build friendships and connect with peers who understand their experiences through social events, workshops, and mentorship programs.
Providing resources that focus on mental and physical wellbeing through workshops on stress management, healthy living, and access to mental health professionals.
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Providing Life Skills Development so that they may gain valuable skills for independent living, including financial literacy, career exploration, and housing.
Care packages & Celebrations
Foster Pantry is dedicated to celebrating the milestones and achievements of young adults transitioning out of foster care and we believe these young adults deserve recognition for their hard work.
Care packages are filled with essentials and goodies to help them feel celebrated and equipped for their next step.
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Foster Pantry partners with the community to provide an 18th birthday celebration to youth aging out of foster care on their final court date.
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Moving Forward
Grant
Our Moving Forward Grant Program hopes to make a positive
impact on youth who are Aging Out of Foster Care by awarding scholarships up to $1500 that are aimed at assisting them with life after foster care whether they are attending college, obtaining a new skill or trade, enlisting in the
military, entering the job force,
obtaining a new job/career/promotion or
securing housing and/or transportation.
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Promoting safety awareness and providing essential resources to keep foster children safe and empowers them and their caregivers with the tools they need to stay safe.
Safe rides
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Ensure foster children travel safely by providing NEW car seats and educating caregivers on proper installation. This reduces the risk of injury and death in the event of a car accident.
*coming soon* Annual
Safety Event
A fun and interactive event focuses on bike safety, water safety, and safe sleep practices, equipping foster kids with the knowledge to stay safe in various situation.
*Coming soon* Safe sleep
safe water
Safe bikes
Educating the foster care community on safety topics and providing resources to keep them safe.
Sponsored by:
Bringing joy and holiday spirit to children in foster care by providing them with
special experiences and gifts.
Holiday Togetherness Box
Filled with fun activities and games for the whole family, these boxes provide a sense of togetherness and warmth during the holidays. They can include crafts, board games, puzzles, and even some sweet treats!
Visits with Santa
Imagine the excitement on a child's face when they get to meet Santa Claus and share their Christmas wishes! Foster Pantry facilitates private visits with Santa, ensuring these children get to experience a magical holiday tradition.
Stocking for Aged out youth
Remembering young adults who have recently aged out of the foster care system. They might not be considered children anymore, but they still appreciate a reminder that they're cared for. Stockings filled with goodies can be a small token of appreciation for them during the holiday season.
Brightening the lives of children in foster care throughout the year by providing
festive experiences, and a sense of normalcy.
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easter
baskets
Next year we will host our 6th Annual Easter Basket Giveaway!
We bring the joy of Easter to foster kids by stuffing colorful baskets with treats, toys, and fun activities.
back to school bash
Easing the transition into the new school year for children in foster care. We provide essential school supplies, backpacks, activities, games and educational resources getting them ready and excited to learn.
costume
shop
Knowing the excitement of picking out a costume, we host a special shopping event for kids in foster care. Here, they can choose a free costume, allowing them to participate fully in the Halloween fun.