Suitcase for Kids is a national nonprofit program started in November, 1995 by 10-year-old Aubyn Burnside when she learned about the foster kids in hometown of Hickory, N.C.

“I thought it was horrible that the children had nothing to carry their things in as they moved so many times. I wanted to make them feel special by giving them something of their own to keep. I tried to put myself in their place and think how I would feel,” said Aubyn.

If a 10 year old can make a difference….so can we.

Most children in foster care carry their belongings in black garbage bags. Each child averages 7 moves while in foster care. It takes so little for you to make an impact during this lonely, sad time in foster care for children.

The Southwest Michigan Association of REALTORS® is proud to announce our sixth year of involvement in this great cause. We hope to build on past years success when we collected new duffel bags, personal care items such as new clothes, basic toiletries, diapers, soap, shampoo as well as cash donations from our generous membership.

We will be contributing items to Berrien, Van Buren and Cass foster care county organizations this year so please help us. Get the word out to your church, scouts, and other civic groups to participate in this little heard about cause so it will grow and help more children.

Items needed for the 2011 Campaign include: small duffle/backpacks, diapers, underwear (up to 14), t-shirts (SM-XL), wet wipes, shampoo, soaps, sanitary items, combs and brushes, deodorant, toothpaste. Foster Kids often will miss birthday, graduation, and other celebrations so gift cards, watches, handheld video games, cologne, and aftershave can bring a smile.

Checks are accepted.  Made payable to: Berrien, Cass or VanBuren County Dept. of Human Services and mailed to SWMAR, 3123 Lake Shore Dr., St.Joseph, MI 49095-2625 or contact Kathy at the Association Office at 269-983-6375.

Please donate your items by September 30, 2011.

Thank you to Two Men and a Truck for donating collection boxes.

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