Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS) and Northside Hospital are collecting backpacks and kid-sized suitcases for foster children in Georgia as part of the 13th annual totes 2 tots suitcase drive.
Approximately 8,500 children, from infants to teenagers, are currently in the foster care system in Georgia. Many of these children shuffle their belongings in garbage bags when they are removed from their homes. Since totes 2 tots was first launched in 2003, the annual volunteer event has collected and distributed more than 37,000 bags.
totes 2 tots was originally held on Martin Luther King Day as a way to honor Dr. King’s vision of philanthropy and give back to the community. The event is now held on the preceding Friday, to kick-off a weekend of service in Dr. King’s honor.
Donations of new or nearly new backpacks and suitcases will be accepted at 27 GCS offices across Georgia – including 19 in Metro Atlanta – on Friday, Jan. 16, 2015, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“As the physicians and staff of Georgia Cancer Specialists, we look forward to honoring Dr. Martin Luther King’s memory for the 13th consecutive year,” said Dr. Cheryl Jones, M.D., vice president and chief medical officer, GCS. “Through this project, we have demonstrated our commitment to support the foster children of Georgia in achieving successful futures in the community.”
GCS partners with the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) to distribute the bags in the counties in which they’re collected. Bobby Cagle, interim director of DFCS, praised those who support the program, which helps to bring a measure of comfort and respect to Georgia’s foster children.
“There are some children in our state who, unfortunately, have few constants in their lives,” said Cagle. “The totes 2 tots program, by providing a piece of luggage to those children whose lives have been upended, offers a sense of stability in a time of uncertainty.”
To find a participating location near you, visit www.gacancer.com or facebook.com/totes2tots, or call 1-877-716-CARE (2273). Financial donations may be made securely online at give.northside.com/totes2tots. All donations are tax deductible.
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