Most times when kids come into the foster care system - all of their belongings are in a black hefty trash bag. As they move through the system - this becomes their suitcase. Understandably, self-esteem can be a huge issue with these kids and when all of your worldly possessions are being carried around in trash bags - it's hard to feel worthy and valued.
Enter Cordonate. Cord reached out to the community and was able to connect with someone at Samsonite. Within 48 hours, he got over 275 suitcases donated. From there, he was able to fill them with all the basics like underwear, socks, toothbrushes/toothpaste, jeans/t-shirts, a blanket, and lovey.
Self-respect many times starts with just feeling like you are on an even playing field with every other kid. Having the basic necessities like these items - and a suitcase to carry them in - is a great way to start.
Thus, Love Starts with the Basics was born.