In 1999, the idea for Bags for Kids was born out of a simple but powerful desire to ensure that children who are suddenly moved from their homes don’t have to carry their belongings in trash bags.
Carol Punske and Sandy Loomis were deeply moved when they learned that children in foster care were often sent on their way with only a garbage bag to carry their personal belongings. They set out to change that, creating a more dignified way for children to move their things by organizing a community-driven effort to make durable, colorful bags for them.
The first Sew-A-Thon took place on January 22, 2000, and has grown ever since, with volunteers from across the community working together to ensure that children in transition have a sense of dignity during difficult times.
In 2024, during the 24th Annual Sew-A-Thon, a record-breaking 2,801 bags were made, thanks to the hard work of countless volunteers—from sewers to coordinators, counters, and cleanup crews.
These bags are made available to the Department of Child Safety (DCS) to ensure whenever a child needs to be moved quickly, they can do so with dignity.
This initiative is a reminder of the power of community and the difference we can make when we come together to support vulnerable children.
You can get involved by joining us at our event held each September, or you can pick up fabric in advance and sew the bags on your own. We also have a helpful video tutorial to guide you through the process of making the bags!
