THE KIDS MATTER PROJECT

About Us
The Kids Matter Project works to help smooth the transition that youth face as they move out of their homes and into alternate housing, be it a safehouse, homeless shelter, foster care, or group housing.  When a child is removed from their home because of abuse, it is often a whirlwind process and they aren’t given the time to gather their toys and necessities like school supplies and hygiene items.  Often, they don’t even have these possessions in the first place, because of neglect. 

The Kids Matter Project provides backpacks and totebags filled with brand-new toys, toiletries, books, and school supplies to children and teens in Northern Colorado who have been victims of abuse.  The Kids Matter Project has made over 2000 bags for youth since we began in 2001.

Volunteering
The Kids Matter Project was started in 2001 and has been continually run entirely by local teens.  We are looking for enthusiastic, hardworking, and committed teens to volunteer with us.  We are especially in need of teens who are willing to volunteer on a regular basis and make a lasting impact on KMP.  Volunteers with the Kids Matter Project generally help by shopping for supplies, assembling bags, communicating with caseworkers, and delivering bags to agencies.  Other duties may include writing grants, organizing fundraisers, and giving presentations to groups.

Donating
Thank you for considering a donation to The Kids Matter Project! We are constantly in need of new supplies to put in the bags. Our most needed items include:

Backpacks
Shampoo
Toothpaste
Books (all reading levels)
Diapers
Stuffed Animals
Barbies/Action Figures
Hair Supplies
Deodorant
Games (small enough to fit in a backpack, i.e. Legos, jumpropes)
Coloring Books
Art Supplies
Playdoh
Journals
School Supplies (notebooks, rulers, etc.)
Note: All items must be new.  Books can be gently used.

Monetary donations are also greatly appreciated and can be made out to Realities for Children Charities, with “The Kids Matter Project” written in the memo line. Mail to 1610 South College Avenue * Fort Collins, CO 80525.

For more information or learn about other ways that you can be involved, please contact:

Lydia O’Reilly
(970) 221-3142
loreilly@greyrock.org