Local Spotlight: Cradles to Crayons

The phrase “children are our future” isn’t just a lyric in a song or a catchy saying. It’s the truth. To help create the leaders of tomorrow, our children need encouragement, care, and the resources to help them grow. However, childhood poverty is a nationwide issue, and we see it frequently in the Philadelphia area.

Without appropriate clothing, food, shelter, and education, these children face unfair barriers that can affect them throughout their lives. To combat this, Cradles to Crayons is here to help.

This nonprofit organization provides children ages 12 and under in low-income or homeless situations with the essential items they need to thrive at a young age. By changing the lives of the children in our community, they can make a difference for the future.

Bringing the Cradles to Crayons’ Mission to Life

The compassionate people at Cradles to Crayons follow a simple 3-step model to help children become all they can be:

• New and gently used children’s items are collected through strong grassroots efforts like community drives and donations.
• These are then processed and packaged by volunteers in The Giving Factory® their helpful warehouse.
•  Then, the packages are distributed to children in the area through a strong network of compassionate partners.

This model helps Cradles to Crayons move toward their vision that one day every child will have what they need to feel safe, warm, valued, and ready to learn.

How You Can Help

If you’re looking to help make the community better with Cradles to Crayons, there are opportunities aplenty…

• Volunteer: Volunteers are always needed to fulfill the vision of Cradles to Crayons. You can participate in this by lending a hand in The Giving Factory®, host a drive with your friends and family, or get your company involved.

• Donate Goods: Cradles to Crayons creates customized KidPacks filled with items that help children in the community. New and near-new items are also appreciated (and needed), including clothing, shoes, books, school supplies, and baby hygiene items.

• Donate Money: If you’re able, making a monetary donation helps the Cradles to Crayons’ cause even further. Just $33 helps a child in need, or you can choose to make reoccurring monthly donations to help up to 30 children a year.

• Fundraising: To spread awareness and raise funds for in-need children, you can also start a fundraising campaign. Get together with people in your neighborhood, from work, or your friends and family. All the resources are provided by Cradles to Crayons, as well.

Learn More About Cradles to Crayons Today

If you’re interested in volunteering with Cradles to Crayons or wish to learn more about their services, reach out or visit their Facebook today. You can help end childhood poverty in your community and watch our future leaders grow into something truly special.