Grant boosts hope for foster care children

THANKS to a People of Post grant, the generosity of the community and the efforts of Hope in a Suitcase, children entering foster care on the Fraser Coast will continue to receive a warm welcome to their new journey in life.

Hope in a Suitcase received a grant of $2000 which they will use to purchase suitcases and duffle bags for children entering foster care; many of whom are experiencing mental wellbeing challenges. 

Australia Post has awarded grants to more than 150 grassroots community and not-for-profit groups across Australia through its annual People of Post grants. 

The People of Post initiative sees Australia Post team members, including Posties and Post Office workers, nominate local not-for-profit community initiatives that support some of Australia’s most pressing social issues in the areas of: mental health, disaster support and resilience, Indigenous children’s literacy, and environmental sustainability.

Kathryn Rodda, Hope in a Suitcase coordinator said, “This grant is amazing. We receive so many beautiful and generous donations of the items we pack into the cases, but often we need to buy suitcases.”

The mission of Hope in a Suitcase is to provide children entering foster care and/or out-of-home care, with something to call their own as they continue on their path in life.

“We love when community groups, schools, children/youth groups and organisations get involved in supporting us.”

“It’s so important to teach the younger generation about compassion and supporting others in our community,” said Mrs Rodda.

Since beginning in November 2020 on the Fraser Coast, Hope in a Suitcase has delivered hundreds of suitcases full of new belongings such as clothes, toiletry items, blankets, cuddly toys, toys, books, crafts, activities, hair accessories, and “love” to children entering or in foster care.

People can donate items throughout the year to the Bendigo Bank in Hervey Bay and Riverside Christian College in Maryborough.  

“If you are a community group, school or organisation who would like to do a donation drive for us, please get in touch through our Facebook page or website.”