Teens raise $1,000 for foster families

Two West Plains High School students recently raised $1,000 for foster families as part of their project for FCCLA. Alexis Inman and Brylee Bonham held a diaper and donation drive benefiting The Chaos Closet, a clothing and diaper resource for area foster families to utilize when caring for children in state custody. The two students purchased $400 worth of diapers in various sizes and collected donations totaling $600.00 from area businesses and individuals. 

Bonham says, “Before starting this project, I had no idea how many children in my own community were in foster care. I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to reach out to so many more people in my community and inform them about the topic, and hopefully spark some interest in learning more about it themselves. I am thankful that The Chaos Closet reaches so many families in our community and welcomes them with open arms.” 

Inman saw the impact this resource has on the community. “Before starting this project, I didn’t realize how expensive and how difficult it is for foster families to get the basic necessities that they need. As I helped raised money for The Chaos Closet, I learned more about the struggles that foster families go through and the importance and impact that support can have on a community in need. “

Executive Director for The Chaos Closet, DeeDee Button, is proud of the efforts put forth by Brylee and Alexis and the impact they have had on the community. "Thanks to the efforts of Brylee and Alexis, The Chaos Closet will be able to continue diapering children in foster care and meeting the needs of the children using funds raised by this duo. With approximately 300 children in foster care and a moment’s notice to prepare for placement of a child, this resource is utilized by foster parents in meeting needs regularly.”

For more information on this local resource for foster families, please visit www.thechaoscloset.com or follow them on Facebook.