New to Care at bighouse
The New to Care program at BigHouse plays a critical role in supporting children during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives: the first 24–48 hours after entering foster care. When children are removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or unsafe conditions, they often arrive in care with little to no personal belongings—sometimes with only the clothes on their backs.
To meet this urgent need, our New to Care program provides thoughtfully packed duffle bags filled with essential items such as new socks and underwear, pajamas, toiletries, new shoes, seasonally appropriate clothing, and diapers and wipes when needed. These items are not only practical—they are a symbol of care, comfort, and dignity during a time of confusion and fear.
Each bag is requested by a caseworker or foster parent as soon as a child enters care, ensuring a quick and personalized response to their immediate needs. By meeting these basic needs with quality, brand-new items, we help restore a sense of normalcy and self-worth. The New to Care bags remind children that they matter, that they are seen, and that their community is standing behind them as they begin this new and challenging journey.