7 Essential Items You Might Not Realize Children in Crisis Need

When children enter foster care or face a crisis, many arrive with little more than the clothes on their backs. At Lowcountry Orphan Relief (LOR), we provide Care Kits filled with new clothing, toiletries, shoes, and comfort items to help restore dignity and stability. Beyond the basics, there are certain items that make a powerful difference in helping children feel safe, cared for, and like they belong.

Here are seven essentials that are often overlooked but deeply needed:

1. Pajamas Pajamas are more than sleepwear. They bring comfort and a sense of normalcy. Many children come to us without anything soft or cozy to wear at night, and a new pair of pajamas helps them feel safe and cared for.

2. Underwear and Socks Simple but vital. New underwear and socks give children a sense of dignity and are critical for comfort and hygiene. These are among the most requested items in our Care Kits.

3. Shoes Proper footwear allows children to attend school, play sports, and step into new environments with confidence. Many arrive with shoes that are too small, worn out, or not right for the season.

4. Hygiene Kits Toothbrushes, shampoo, deodorant, and hairbrushes are not just extras. They help children feel clean and confident, which is especially important when everything else in their lives feels uncertain.

5. Backpacks A backpack is more than a school supply. It is something a child can call their own. Too often, children in foster care carry their belongings in trash bags. A backpack provides dignity and a sense of stability.

6. Books Books bring escape, comfort, and learning. Each Care Kit includes a book to give a child something positive to focus on and something to keep as their own.

7. Comfort Items (Stuffed Animals or Blankets) A soft stuffed animal or blanket can offer enormous emotional support. These items remind children that they are loved and give them something to hold during difficult moments.

Why These Items Matter

When children receive brand-new items, whether socks, pajamas, or a stuffed animal, they gain more than physical necessities. They gain dignity, confidence, and hope. These essentials help restore a sense of normalcy during a time when so much feels uncertain.

How You Can Help

You can make a difference for children in crisis by:

• Donating new items like those listed above, Donations | Lowcountry Orphan Relief

• Hosting a collection drive with your school, workplace, or church, Collection Drive | Lowcountry Orphan Relief)

• Volunteering at LOR to help pack Care Kits, Volunteer | Lowcountry Orphan Relief)

Every small act of kindness adds up to a big impact in the life of a child. Together, we can ensure that no child feels forgotten in their time of need.