Eckerd Connects | Raising Hope

Every two minutes, a child is removed from his or her home due to abuse or neglect, often with nothing more than the clothes on their back. Children entering foster care seldom have a toothbrush and many carry the few belongings they have in a garbage bag. But there’s hope for these children in need.

Eckerd Connect’s Raising Hope program provides these children with emergency supplies like clothing and toiletries along with comfort items, like a teddy bear.

Rooms of Hope are set up like stores and are filled with fresh clothing, pajamas, shoes, hygiene items, diapers and other necessities. Children and families are able to "shop" for the items they need all while maintaining a sense of pride and dignity. Rooms of Hope are usually co-located within Eckerd Connects offices or facilities for easier access in emergency situations.