Hillsborough County collects unclaimed luggage from TPA for local foster children
The donated bags provide a place for children to keep their belongings after going through the trauma of being removed from their home.
Tampa International Airport is teaming up with Hillsborough County to support children and teens entering foster care through the Duffels of Dignity program.
Late last week, the Airport donated 119 gently used bags that ended up in TPA's Lost and Found after being left behind and never claimed by their owners. The bags were emptied of their contents and designated for donation after 30 days.
“When children are removed from their homes, their belongings are often hastily packed into trash bags,” said Craig Jewesak, Administrative Services Coordinator with Hillsborough County Children’s Services. “Our goal is to replace those trash bags with duffel bags and suitcases, giving these kids a sense of dignity as they embark on a challenging journey.”
TPA's donation marks one of the largest single contributions of bags and suitcases to the program which operates primarily through community donations, relying on local businesses, churches, and organizations to host collection drives. TPA's Lost and Found department receives 30,000 bags and other lost items each year, thousands of which are returned to their owners. Items not claimed after 30 days are often donated to various charity organizations across the Tampa Bay area.
Community members who wish to join in supporting Duffels of Dignity can donate new or gently used duffel bags, suitcases, and backpacks, as well as unopened personal care items such as toothbrushes, shampoo, and deodorant. Donations are accepted Monday through Friday at the Children's Services administrative office located at 3191 Clay Mangum Lane, Tampa, FL 33618. Items may also be purchased through the program's Amazon Wish List and shipped directly to the campus. While all donations are welcome, Jewesak says new items have the greatest impact, providing a fresh start for the children in need.
For more details about Duffels of Dignity and how to get involved, visit HCFL.gov/DuffelsofDignity.
