When clients choose Closet Factory, they get more than a custom storage system—they get to support local foster youth. For every job that’s completed, Closet Factory donates a duffle bag to the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition, fusing together heart and home improvement.
Each duffle bag contains toiletries and other small items for kids, and the duffle can be converted into a backpack that kids can use for school.
In total since the partnership began, Closet Factory has donated nearly 1,000 bags to the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition, which has been serving children and families in the St. Louis region for 35 years.
The coalition works with both children in need and families looking to help, with a goal of creating permanency in the lives of children impacted by foster care. Every year, the coalition assists more than 3,000 children in the foster care system.
“When foster kids are moved between homes, they often only get a black trash bag in which to put their personal possessions,” says Closet Factory CEO Blair L. Fortner. “By giving them the dignity of packing in a proper bag, we hope to ease their transitions between homes.”
Throughout the year, Closet Factory partners with additional local nonprofits to make a meaningful impact. During National Foster Care Awareness Month, Closet Factory Cares highlights the needs of foster children by donating high-quality duffel bags that double as backpacks, supporting organizations focused on their well-being.
As part of the Time for Kids initiative, the team volunteers during the summer with local groups that assist children and families in need. During the holiday season, Closet Factory spreads gratitude by donating bags and other essential items to nonprofits, helping them serve children in the community.
These initiatives embody Closet Factory’s commitment to fostering support and dignity for kids throughout the year—an initiative that hits close to home for many in the company. “Donating to the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition is a bit personal for us, as one of our longtime employees, Steve Altis, grew up in a household where his parents were foster parents,” Fortner says. “In addition to his biological sister, he has more than 60 foster siblings. He led our first delivery at the end of 2023, and it was great to see him help give back to something that has had such an impact on his life.”
Closet Factory delivers the duffle bags twice a year—and Altis never misses a delivery and a chance to see the business give back.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Closet Factory. To learn more, visit closetfactory.com..
