Day 1 Bags

Thank you so much for celebrating my graduation with me. I was so blessed and overwhelmed with the wonderful gift. You have provided me gift card quilt. I never expected this.

I learned of the opportunity to make and donate quilts to Day 1 Bags (a very odd name, by the way) on Facebook. I like giving back to my community and I like to make quilts but have no one to give quilts to. The program with Day 1 Bags seemed like the perfect marriage to two important parts of my life. It was easy to sign up and a response from the organization was timely, but follow-up communication was spotty and not necessarily informative or clear. I think that part of the problem may be an insufficient number of volunteers, especially when considering the vastness of the state of Texas. Perhaps as the work of Day 1 Bags becomes more generally known there will be more folks who would be able to volunteer, thus making the organization more dynamic and able to make a bigger impact on those they so generously serve. In spite of my 2-star rating, I have already made one quilt top for the class of 2026 and intend to make at least one more.

I've been involved with Day 1 Bags for three years, two as the Region 11 Coordinator for their "Do you Sew" campaign that provides quilts and other gifts to Foster Children graduating from High School. At the end of year parties, I can tell you that these gift touch the hearts of many of the graduating Seniors. While at these parties, I've also heard so many stories for workers within the industry about how much they appreciate the bag donations, and what those donations impact makes.

We are incredibly grateful to Day 1 Bags for their generous donation of bags to the Isaiah 117 House. So often kids arrive with only a trash bag with a few of their belongings. The donation of bags helps us be able to give the kids something of their own. Every child deserves to feel seen and valued, and Day 1 Bags helps make that possible.

Day 1 Bags has provided amazing bags for the kids we serve who are in foster care. The duffle bags prevent the kids from carrying their belongings in trash bags. We have used some of the smaller bags for school supplies and feminine hygiene products. The younger kids love the smaller backpacks that fit them so much better than the normal size. Thank you so much.

What a wonderful inspiration to share beautifully hand-crafted bags for persons who truly deserve them! thank you so much for caring!

Day 1 Bags provides a variety of bag types to my non-profit (Foster the Family) to be used for our Foster CARE Packages we deliver when a child enters foster or kinship care. They have been a wonderful partner for us! Orders are shipped quickly and the bags are good quality. We're excited to continue to collaborate together.

Day 1 Bags provides a gesture of love and caring to graduating youth aging out of the foster care system. These youth have overcome difficult odds and Day 1 rewards them with a care package that help remind them that we have not forgotten them, we are aware of their accomplishments and are looking forward to seeing more. Our youth leave with a feeling that strangers do care for them.

The whole PALs team especially Suzette Hutchinson, have been so amazing! We have a group home and one of our boys graduated and the Pal team bought him many gifts, gave him gift cards, and soo many things! He came home so happy and proud! This made my entire day and heart smile! Thank you again Ms Hutchinson, thank you Belong Pal team!

Filling a gap for foster youth. As a quilter I make quilts to donate to their graduating seniors program but they also provide bags so kids don’t have to keep their things in trash bags! I love the heart for foster kids that this organization shows and coming along side to help is a natural.

This is a great way for someone who sews to help kids in need. Even if you don't quilt, there are other things to make. Or you can adopt a graduate foster child and make sure they have a gift when they graduate school.

We are beyond grateful to Day 1 Bags for their generous donation of duffle bags for children entering foster care. These bags are so much more than just luggage — they represent dignity, comfort, and a small sense of ownership during a very uncertain time. Because of your support, children no longer have to carry their belongings in trash bags, but instead receive a brand-new duffle bag that they can call their own. The quality of the bags is outstanding, and the care put into providing them is evident. Thank you for partnering with us to make a difficult transition a little bit easier and more hopeful for our children.

A wonderful opportunity to get involved with a segment of the community that needs support, but isn’t particularly accessible for those who aren’t involved on the front lines.

Day 1 Bags is a great partner with my social service organization. Through the generosity of one of their donors, Day 1 Bags gave us 1,000 backpacks for the abused children we serve in Houston. Their donation empowers children with the tools necessary for a good school year and brings joy as they heal from abuse. We are honored to work with Day 1 Bags and look forward to our continued relationship.

We are incredibly grateful to Day 1 Bags for their generous donation of 1,000 backpacks to support the children and families we serve at The Children’s Assessment Center. This donation will have a profound impact as we prepare our clients for a successful start to the upcoming school year.

For many of the children we serve, access to essential school supplies can be a barrier to confidence, academic success, and a sense of normalcy. These backpacks, filled with care and purpose, will ensure that our clients walk into their classrooms equipped and empowered. Beyond the school supplies, these bags carry a message of hope, dignity, and community support.

Thanks to Day 1 Bags, our Back-to-School initiative is stronger than ever. We are truly honored to partner with an organization so deeply committed to uplifting vulnerable youth. On behalf of our entire team, thank you for being a part of the healing journey for the children and families of the CAC.

I have been working with Day 1 Bags for just under a year. It is a great charity that works closely with the system to support children in foster care. They provide much needed supplies, host graduation parties, and most importantly, let the children and young adults know that they are loved. It’s a great organization, and I look forward to our partnership working together in the future.

I volunteered to make a quilt for a graduating senior in foster care. I got to share what I was doing with so many, and got my friend to donate the quilting of it. It was awesome, I am already looking forward to the next quilt I will make!

I have been a volunteer making quilts through this organization for several years. The quilts are given to youth aging out of the foster care system in Texas who are graduating from high school. This organization has minimal overhead or administrative costs. It is driven by the volunteers who donate all materials and time to make quilts. These youth are members of an often overlooked segment of the population who have achieved success even with the hardships of their lives.

Many quilters have exhausted our families with quilts. It’s so nice to do something you enjoy - like quilting- and provide a gift to a young person just starting out. Get to show that they are loved!

I am involved with sewing quilts for graduating high school foster care students.

This was my first year volunteering to make a quilt for a graduating senior and it was such a wonderful experience. Day 1 Bags is incredibly organized considering they are coordinating quilt collection across the entire state of Texas and nearly entirely volunteer led. I'm so happy to have been a part of such an impactful mission and hope that the gifts the graduates received will help them feel loved and valued in their communities.

The mission of Day 1 Bags brings the best to those in foster care who need to know they are not alone on this journey. Day 1 Bags allows for different skills to move toward the same goals of ensuring those in foster care are remembered and cherished. Communications are clear and available in many different platforms and sites. My questions were always answered promptly. I recommend Day 1 Bags to everyone I know and have many who have come on board to spread their time and talents to this organization.

Thank you to Day 1 Bag for all the gifts, donations, quilts, gift cards, and for celebrating with us one of our youths in foster care's greatest accomplishments. Your continuous support every year, along with the tremendous love and generosity our youths receive, especially during this FY 2025, is greatly appreciated. We are incredibly grateful for your generous contributions to our recent event. Your support made a significant impact, and we would love to share some feedback with you.

Very nice bags that came quickly, and great communication when they were going to send them out!

Day 1 Bags has been a continuously strong partner for the Isaiah 117 House in Marion County. Our organization serves as a temporary placement for children entering into the Foster Care system. After being removed from an abusive or neglectful home, children face a short period of waiting before being placed with a family or shelter, and we hold this in-between time with them. Many children come with nothing, and those who do come with items bring them in a dirty bag or even a trash bag. Day 1 Bags provides an opportunity for our children to leave with a new, high-quality duffel bag and a new sense of dignity in their being. We are so grateful that they are willing to partner with us and help change the way Foster Care begins. We have served over 150 children this year already, and every child has been able to leave with a bag thanks to Day 1 Bags!

I had a great time at the high school graduation celebration. I am happy to have received several prizes and will remember the experience for a long time.

No one helps these less fortunate children than Day 1 Bags

Had lots of fun helping Forster kids on their graduation, 10/10

Great cause, good work, very fun, very jolly, 11/10.

They were so incredibly nice and really well organized! They have a great heart to serve and really want wants best for the community, I aspire to be like them!

We got to help make goodies for the foster care seniors! I loved being able to help the community.

Loved being able to help kids in need and had a great time overall volunteering!!!

Day One Bags are amazing! They help us provide for the needs of our children in care each time our caseworkers come to get supplies for them from our resource room.

I’m so thankful for the quality backpacks provided to my foundation. Because of these bags we will be able to reach our goal to give away 500+ bags full of school supplies to kids to prepare them for the upcoming school year.

Day 1 Bags so graciously donated some of their merchandise to support Foster the Family, a non-profit serving foster families and their kiddos. We are so grateful for their generosity! Thank YOU Day 1 Bags!

Kids deserve the best. Life is already hard enough, no reason to make it worse. This organization aims to make kids feel loved and cared for. Brings some dignity. Love supporting.

Day 1 Bags is an incredible organization to work with. They are founded and driven by an incredible mission and their team is awesome to work with. Our office has volunteered with Day 1 Bags multiple times and each our of team members truly walks away excited for what Day 1 Bags is doing.

The bags we receive from Day 1 Bags are such a blessing to the family and children we serve! Knowing they were handmade makes them so much more special! The workers also love them because they are useful in getting things to the families and they can continue to use them!

My class and I made cards for the graduating foster kids. It was such a positive experience because this nonprofit gives perspective and has such a strong mission. It inspires anyone involved and I hope to do something like this again.

My experience with Day 1 bags is I made Valentines day cards and during this time I felt very good because I had the opportunity to make someones day.

This nonprofit exceeded my expectations by having me and my school make bags of food for families that were not as fortunate. This holds a special place in my heart because it makes me happy to see good people out there making a positive impact in the world. Furthermore, my class and I made Valentine's cards, which made many people happy.

My experience there was great!!!!! We made Valentine's day card and I felt good to give someone one love!

Made bags and cards to be delivered by these people, simple and effective, all I had to do was make the cards and they picked them up.

I made Valentines day cards for Day 1 Bags and it was such a fun experience. I loved it because it was an opportunity to brighten someone's day.

Me and my class sorted food into bags. This service to foster youth holds a special meaning for me because I know I helped out and made their lives a little easier.

I was able to help participate in making key chains for the graduating seniors of the foster youth. It was wonderful to help Day 1 bags though this simple task, and I'm grateful we could help!

Our class put together some key-chains with inspirational quotes for graduating seniors. Making these meant a lot to me since everyone deserves a reminder that someone cares about them and loves them.

My class made key chains for the bags. The key chains were made up of words of confirmation on a little wood block. I feel doing little things like this can serve as reminders throughout the day that when you feel down you have something to look forward to.

We made encouraging key chains for the class of 2025 seniors in foster care. We also wrote heart felt messages on Valentine's Day cards to spread the love of the day! I loved volunteering for this because I love feeling the empathy and achievements these kids in foster care have. I love encouraging them and making sure they feel loved and accomplished.

In my community service class we created key chains and valentines cards for the foster homes! It felt amazing to be able to do something like that because it personally is a very impactful thing for me. I have had several close friends who have been in foster homes and getting to know them I realized just how much the little things count.

My experience in making Key chains was very enjoyable. . I sat in my classroom making a key chain and although it didn't hold any actual special value to me it made me happy that I was leaving an impact.I believe the reason why we were doing it will leave a great impact

My class and I made key chains for the class of 2025 for kids in foster care. I Thought this was a great experience and i really enjoyed it.

My class and I made keychains for the class of 2025 seniors in foster care. I thought it was a really fun and easy way to support the community.

I helped charity through creating keychains for the graduating class of 2025 in Foster Care. It was a fun way to support them, and although its small, it is something to show our support.

In my class we made the keychains for graduating foster kids. It was a very impactful experience for me and my friends to be apart of something so big.

Very fun and interactive working on the key chains for the class of 2025 seniors and foster care. It felt very good because it was for a good cause, many seniors need motivational quotes or words and the keychains provide them with that.

An activity I did to help out with this activity is me and my class made key chains to show them our love and support! This held a special meaning to me because my parents and I fostered 2 little girls once until they found a special home.

My class and I made key chains which was very fun and it felt good doing service to help other people.

This was a amazing experience. Our class helped make Valentine's day cards, and we made key chains for class of 2025 seniors in foster care. Yes it was a very meaningful project to participate in.

We got to make key chains for the class of 2025 for the seniors in foster care. It was so much fun and am so glad I got to make an impact in our community.

My class and I made keychains for the graduating foster care seniors. This service was impactful to me because it shows me that I am helping someone's life be a little bit better and more motivational.

I had a great time putting together key chains for graduating seniors. It was a fun and easy service project that was for a great cause! Overall enjoyable experience.

I put together key chains for the kids graduating high school

I worked with my class to assemble keychains for the non-profit. The initiative was great and it was an overall positive experience.

My class and I made Valentine's day card and key chains for seniors in foster care. It was very fun and enjoyable to help spread love and kindness.

My class made Day One Bags. We made Valentine's Day cards and keychains. It felt nice making things for people to enjoy!

I believe that my experience with this non-profit was engaging, but I did struggle with one of the activities assisgned for us. For my class, we had made Valentine's Day card which was abosolutely fun. I was able to be creative, crafty, and getting to enjoy something rather doing than doing work. Another activity we did was keychains. I honestly struggled with this, but this is just a personal problem. Overall, this experience was fun, with some conflict.

my class and i made keychains for day 1 bags and it was super fun and we were able to help the community,we also made some valentines day cards which is super fun to do you can get so creative awell as give some love to people who need it with a handmade card

My experience was good, I made Valentine's Day cards, the service held special meaning for me, and it meant a lot to help and be able to make a difference for them.

I helped to make Valentine's Day cards for them . It was so much fun and I enjoyed being able to contribute to their cause.

We made Valentine's Day cards, and put together some key chains. It was a very fun and cute experience. It felt good to be able to give a helping hand to other people my age.

I helped to make key chains for this nonprofit and wrote valentine's day letters, and I liked doing them, but the key chains were difficult to do, but we were given a surplus of them to make.

My class and I created key chains and decorated Valentines Day cards for Day 1 Bags. I enjoyed getting creative throughout this process and glad to be able to help in any way. My class worked very hard to make sure the kids that received one of both felt loved. I strive to do my best in helping the different aspects of Day 1 Bags.

During my FACS class period we worked on making valentines day cards and worked on creating keychains for Day 1 bags. Overall this was a amazing experience and was so great to support the cause of Day 1 bags. Day 1 bags support such a great cause and was amazing to be able to help them.

In my FACS (Family and Community Services) class period, we wrote Valentine's Day cards and created keychains for Day 1 Bags. It was a great experience and it was so amazing to know the impact you are going to have on others. Day 1 Bags is amazing at what they do and they work so hard for everyone they serve to know they are loved. :)

I LOVE them and so do the kiddos that come to the Bluebonnet Room! We have a lady here in the area who also make them so we had those in the room prior to receiving these. We will always take more. :) The best part is not knowing what designs we are going to get next.

I am a volunteer with the ‘Back to School Bash’ held at the Lakehills Community Center in Bandera County. I help stuff the backpacks in advance and hand out the bags the day of the event. I distribute to the Kindergarten and First Graders. I love to see the smiling faces and hear the squeals of delight when the kids get their backpacks- especially the Kindergarden ones. This is usually their first backpack and they love to pick out their choice of animal or color. The puppy dog and kitty cat ones are so popular. I have had the delightful opportunity to meet both Hunter and his mother. Hunter is a role model and gives me hope for America

When we reached out to DAY 1 bags requesting for bags, we were unsure if they were able to help us, but to our surprise, they were able to help us and provided us with everything we were looking for and more information as well. This organization is one that I hope to build long term partnership with as we continue to help and support children in need. Thank you - Perpetual (JP Cares)

Being able to get this bags and give it to these innocent children and the smiles we see on their faces when they receive it is just priceless. Thank you! JP

We received 100 bags from Day -1- Bag yesterday and we are so grateful to them and dedication to help and support children in need. Thank you - JP Cares Inc.

We received around 130 bags that we use for ready-to-go care bags. We stuff them with toiletries for children going into foster care.

Each bag is very well made with colorful fabric, various designs and matching drawstrings. They are perfect for everyday use. The children are thankful to be able to choose something that reflects their personality and that they can keep for themselves.

This nonprofit has provided so many high quality bags to our youth. We are so grateful that we can proudly give these youth a sense of dignity.

Worked with them for an order of hygiene bags. They were great to work with and went above and beyond for these youth in care.

I have volunteered along side Day 1 Bags and have seen the joy the kids get when receiving a special stuffed animal of their very own. A little 5/6 year old girl said she was SO happy, she had never had her very own doll before❣️Touched my heart.

My sister is a big supporter of Day 1 bags for foster children. These children need all the support they can get because most are afraid and have to leave everything they know behind. This gives them a hug.

Our journey with Day 1 bags began with the tragedy in Uvalde Texas. We donated bears to bless the children impacted by the school shooting. We had not heard of Day 1 bags before this time. We have loved learning more about the organization and their impact on kids during traumatic times. We love supporting a ministry that comes along side children in their time of need.

It is a privilege to serve with Day 1 Bags. Their hearts for foster children are amazing.

Day 1 Bags has a huge heart for our foster children. We are so grateful to have an organization like them who is there to walk along side them in their time of need. They provide many opportunities for others in the community to come together and assist.

I have volunteered with Day 1 and love to see all that they do for the community. They welcome volunteers and it is always great to see the impact they are making.

We love volunteering for Day 1 Bags and directly serving those who live in our very own community.

i have volunteered with day1 and am so impressed with their care for the foster community here in Texas.

As a volunteer for day one bags I see how much they do for the community. They are making a direct impact on foster youth and improving their quality of life.

I have volunteered with Day1Bags and seen the huge impact they have made in the lives of foster youth!

I really admire what this non-profit does for kids in our community. I volunteer with them through National Charity League and I always look forward to helping them. Day 1 Bags plays such a vital role in helping foster youth feel like they belong.

I’ve had the opportunity to help with Day 1 Bags several times and it’s one of my favorite philanthropies to support. I love the overall mission and what the organization/packing the bags represent. Day 1 Bags is always willing to get volunteers involved and were able to do something that is truly impacting the community in a positive way.

The bags provided by Day 1 Bags are such a blessing to the children and families that we serve. We are able to help meet their needs by providing quality bags received from Day 1 Bags. Thank you for all you do and look forward to working with you again in 2025!

I've learned about this nonprofit through an organization called NCL. I am very grateful for the opportunity to help with something so thoughtful to the community. Everything that this one idea has brought to life is amazing. Packing the bags, decorating them, thinking of the kids, is something so rewarding not just for your self, but it makes the community a better place. I would recommend anyone to be a part of this because it is so simple yet makes big impacts.

I worked with my daughter and a few friends putting together hygiene bags together for teenagers at a group home. We assembled bags and delivered to the home. The young ladies were so grateful to have their own products. Day 1 bags strives to give these kids a personal touch and make them feel special. We were so lucky to be involved and see first hand that our work really reached those in need in our local community.

We had an amazing experience. Staff and youth were greeted with positive, open arms from this community. We were grateful to fellowship with them.

Day 1 Bags is a phenomenal non-profit organization that we thoroughly enjoy working with every year during our National Adoption Day events! They always go above and beyond in giving our children adoption stuffies, adoption certificates and frames for their new stuffy adoption, and memories that fill their day with pure magic! I cannot say enough how much we at Saint Francis Ministries are ever so grateful for their sponsorship!

A Magical Evening with Day 1 Bags and JONES Christmas Ranch

This holiday season, the children at Roy Maas Youth Alternatives experienced an unforgettable evening of joy and wonder, thanks to the incredible generosity of Day 1 Bags and JONES Christmas Ranch. The event was nothing short of magical, as it brought the spirit of Christmas to life for our youth.

The evening began with a heartwarming dinner where the children enjoyed delicious food while sharing laughter and stories with one another. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation as the kids prepared for what was to come.

Next, the children were treated to a breathtaking holiday light experience at JONES Christmas Ranch. With twinkling lights illuminating the night sky and festive decorations around every corner, the ranch became a winter wonderland. The kids marveled at the dazzling displays, their faces lighting up as they soaked in the beauty of the season.

To make the night even more special, Day 1 Bags surprised each child with thoughtful gifts. These presents, carefully selected to bring smiles and happiness, created a sense of belonging and love that warmed every heart. The generosity of Day 1 Bags reminded the children that they are cherished and cared for, especially during the holidays.

This joyful evening of connection, celebration, and holiday cheer left a lasting impact on the children of RMYA. We are deeply grateful to Day 1 Bags and JONES Christmas Ranch for their kindness and dedication to making this season brighter for our youth. Together, they created memories that will be treasured for years to come.

What Day1 contributes to helping develop the dignity of our children is invaluable. We are so appreciative of all your hard work and dedication!

Thank you so much for serving kids in need! Merry Christmas!

It was heart warming seeing that God is still in the move using people and showing his goodness in them and our kids receiving those gifts and seeing them smile was top notch… thank you for all you do!

Love them! They were so welcoming and nice to our kiddos

I volunteer to make quilts for this charity because I want every child graduating from foster care to know that they are values in our society and not forgotten. I pray i er each quilt I make that the recipient knows their worth and finds success in the world!

Wonderful time serving with this group. Big Hearts and Joyful Spirits!

This organization is doing something truly extraordinary for kids in foster care. Too often, children in the foster system have to carry their personal belongings in trash bags, a heartbreaking reality that no child should face. Day 1 Bags steps in to change that narrative, providing high-quality duffels and backpacks to ensure these kids have a sense of dignity and ownership over their belongings.

The thoughtfulness and care that go into their work are truly inspiring. It's not just about the bags themselves but about the message they send: "You are valued, and you deserve better." By offering something as simple yet significant as a sturdy, well-made bag, Day 1 Bags helps foster children feel seen and respected during such a challenging time in their lives.

The Jones Christmas Ranch showed us a great time. Our staff and kiddos loved the activities, food and lights. This event was amazing. The lights had to be the children favorite part.

The kids had a wonderful time they absolutely loved it! From when we arrived all volunteers and staff were just great! The kids were delighted and we are so grateful and blessed this is offered ! I attempted to upload photo unfortunately photo is larger and unable to upload thank you again❤️

I couldn’t say enough great things about day 1 bags! Their impact to the foster care community is so much more than a bag. They have provided dignity to our kids experiencing foster care and created awareness, and they’ve lifted up our kids and families while they navigate the foster care system. I’m so grateful for all of the ways the day one teams have come alongside us!

Love the bag! This will help my teen foster in doing his laundry. Life skills for the win!

Beautiful and very good quality bags!! My children loved getting the stockings as well. Thank you so much for your generosity.

I’m a Long Arm Quilter and Quilt maker for many years. I became aware of this program four years ago and continue to make quilts pillowcases cosmetic bags for the graduating seniors. Is a worthy and worthwhile cause that I feel strongly about. I currently make the grab and go bags by the hundreds. This charity does exactly what it commits to do.

Such a great organization! Its amazing all that they have done for the community and those in foster care!

Our children in foster care and our young adults love Day 1 Bags! They are so wonderful, thoughtful, and intentional with the care that they provide. Every one of our residents got individual attention, and a unique experience that I'm sure they will remember when they grow up and reflect.

Thank you for making the youth we care for feel loved and appreciated.

This was a great campaign and gift to the youth in foster care

Thank you all so much for the love you have shown us! I was filled with such joy experiencing what you all have worked so hard to capture! You will always be a favorite memory of mine! I was with Mercy Gate by the way lol!

I had never seen anything like this before and the best part is I was able to do it with my mom. ... my heart was so full ! Thank you all so much! oh and I was with Mercy Gate!

This was such a heartwarming event, and I definitely was able to feel the love that everyone put into the experience ... it truly brought me so much joy! You all are forever family to Mercy Gate!

It was so amazing and all of the lights were beautiful! I just want to take a moment to thank everyone for all of their hard word and dedication in making this a wonderful Christmas experience! ps I was with Mercy Gate!

I went along with Mercy Gate, the food was so good and everyone was very friendly. I enjoy being silly and no one had a problem being silly along with me.. I truly enjoyed the entire experience!

Jones Christmas ranch was beyond amazing in every kind of way! I had the privilege of attending a dinner and gift giveaway they hosted for mercy gate ministries! I highly recommend the fun festive place to anyone!! I’d give ten stars if I was allowed! Thank you jones Christmas ranch for the most memorable time with the people I love!!������

I have visited the Christmas Ranch two years in a row now. The first year I came with Mercy Gate Ministries (a faith based program that helps women heal who have been victims of sexual trauma). I didn't have my kids with me and it was a very emotional time for me. The staff was incredible at making sure we all felt so loved. They greeted us with a meal, gifts and prayer. This year I got to come again, and this year I was able to have my children with me. These people allow the Lord to work miracles of healing through this place. I cannot say enough how grateful I am for the experience they have provided for me and my children.

Day 1 Bags was such a blessing to Mercy Gate Ministries. We help those who are coming out of human trafficking and sexual exploitation and Day1Bags loved on the women in such a sweet way. Thank you for sharing with us. God bless you all!

We want to express our deepest gratitude to Day 1 Bags for the incredible impact they made on the foster kids who attended the recent holiday party. The generosity shown through the gifts, gift cards, and the festive atmosphere created a truly special experience for the children who attended.

The holiday season can be a particularly challenging time for foster children, as they often face feelings of uncertainty or isolation. However, Day 1 Bags turned this experience into something memorable and full of joy. The thoughtful gifts and gift cards were more than just material items; they were symbols of love, care, and the belief that these children deserve the best. For many, it was an opportunity to pick out something for themselves—something that they may not have had the chance to do otherwise.

The holiday party itself was filled with warmth and excitement, offering an environment where the kids could just relax, have fun, and enjoy being children without the weight of their struggles. From the smiles on their faces to the laughter shared, it was clear that the event provided not just tangible gifts but also a sense of belonging, hope, and joy. The atmosphere was filled with love, and the children felt seen, cared for, and celebrated.

We are so grateful to Day 1 Bags for their unwavering commitment to foster youth and for making this holiday season a little brighter for so many children. Thank you for bringing hope, happiness, and a sense of security to these young lives!

The last 2 years, Day 1 Bags have donated stuffed animals for National Adoption Day. Each child leaves the adoption hearing with a stuffed animal and a smile on their face. You can see each child light up when they are able to choose a stuffed animal.

Thank you, Day1 Bags!

We received several stuffed animals from Day 1 Bags for Ellis County National Adoption Day. We loved every one as they were unique and special with reference to scripture. All the kids gravitated towards these in particular when choosing their special Adoption Day Stuffy. THANKS AGAIN!

They have always been so wonderful to step in and provide the very best quality stuffed animals for our kiddos in the care of CPS - to help the celebrate on adoption day and for all of our kiddos that are adopted. This agency makes a huge difference on such an important day in a child's life!

Volunteering at Day 1 Bags as part of my Cotillion service project was a meaningful and eye-opening experience.
The experience taught me that volunteering isn't just about giving time—it's about understanding the impact we have on others. It made me realize how fortunate I am, and how important it is to lend a hand to those who are going through challenging situations.
Overall, this project showed me that no matter how young you are, you can make a real difference in your community. Helping others through volunteering isn't just a responsibility, it’s an opportunity to show kindness and make the world a little better, one small action at a time.

I volunteered at Day 1 Bags, helping prepare for an upcoming Christmas party. I helped stuff stockings for youth and children who are less fortunate then I am. I felt good knowing that I contributed to making the upcoming event a success.

Day 1 Bags were our heroes for the month of September! Our organization, Isaiah 117 House Dallas County, serves foster children awaiting placement. Since opening our doors in June 2023, we have seen over 375 children coming straight from being removed from their homes. Most of the time, they do not have any belongings of their own, so we make it a point to pack bags for our guests with clothes, pajamas, hygiene products, toys and anything they are in need of. We were running low on duffel bags and we reached to Day 1 Bags to see if they could help and they truly went above and beyond! They provided us with duffel bags promptly and with amazing communication throughout the process! We are so grateful for the way they filled this need in such a timely manner!

Amazing!!!! Super cool place to visit for Christmas! And they are doing so much for foster kids to enjoy the holidays!

I helped write christmas cards and set up decorations outside.

What a pleasure to work with Day 1 Bags! A few days ago we received a shipment of nap rolls and have stocked them in our Rainbow Room. These will be available for use by Comal County foster and kinship families for children attending day care. In addition, they will be available to DFPS workers for children immediately after removal while awaiting final preparations by their placement. These nap rolls are high quality and greatly appreciated.
Laurel Jensen
Rainbow Room Coordinator
Comal County Child Welfare Board

So thankful for Day 1 Bags and how they've partnered with our local Foster the Family branch to provide quality bags for care packages for foster, adoptive, and kinship families. The bags are quality, vibrant, and are the perfect companion to our care packages so that kids get the items they need and have quality items to use.

As a young contributor to day one bags, I felt pleased with all of the progress the other members and I made while being able to volunteer and help around the ranch. I wrote heartfelt Christmas cards for the foster children, filled up some stockings for the children and brought chapsticks for them too! I felt very happy and proud that I was able to participate in these activities, because it made me aware how blessed us kids are that we are able to do these things for children in need, but also that we learned to be grateful for what we have, because lots of other kids in the world do not. I can’t even begin to imagine their excited faces once they see the gifts and cards!

Timothy 4:4-5
“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.”

This bible verse reminds me to always be thankful and grateful for what you have, and I believe that Day 1 Bags made not only me but other volunteers feel this way.

This past month I served my heart out at the Jones Christmas ranch as a volunteer, and did everything from hammering a snowman to the ground to drawing one on a homemade card. I had lended a hand with constructing cheerful cards for soon-to-be cheerful kids that feel cold not only on the outside but deep within them on the inside throughout wintertime, and with placing and stabilizing the light decorations for them to delight their eyes upon. My sweet friends in another group also stocked up some stockings with goodies for the youth in foster care. I believe that it was significantly impactful to give our time to others for this loving season, just as God gifted us with his one and only precious son. I have faith that we truly did influence in making a special someone else's Christmas shine just as bright as the Jones Christmas ranch sparkling lights!

Matthew 5:14-16
"Your lives light up the world. For how can you hide a city that stands on a hilltop? And who would light a lamp and then hide it in an obscure place? Instead, its placed where everyone in the house can benefit from its light.”

This great organization has helped me realize the impact that one person can make in this big world.

It was really great to know that I was helping out for a really good cause.

It was such a fun event. I love volunteering and it was so much fun to help and spend time with my friends. At the event I wrote Christmas cards and helped get lights out of the shed they had.

It was a really fun experience and I made some friends from other schools. I was placed in the group where we had to fill the stockings and I thought it was really fun because we all had to work as a team to finish.

We learned how to work together as a group and do things for those less fortunate.

It was fun and I was with my friends. I enjoyed being able to give back to my community

As of August 10, 2024, James City County Virginia, had 16 children who are in foster care, between 1-year-old and 18 years old. Sadly, when they enter foster care, supervised by the James City County Child Protective Services (JCCCPS), they are given a small plastic bag with all their worldly belongings---often, minimal items, which is deplorable.

Obviously, when a child enters foster care, it is an extremely traumatic event---both physically and mentally, not only for the child, but others.

Day 1 Bags has supported a service project sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Colonial Capital, here in Williamsburg, VA, whereby, “comfort items” such as toiletries, toothbrushes, shampoo, deodorant, and a stuffed animal, held by a small duffle bag, are provided to the James City Child Protective Services, to give to children entering foster care.

The Day 1 Bags charitable organization has graciously donated small duffel bags to hold all of the aforementioned items. Additionally, they donated medium and large duffel bags for storage of other donated items. Even more generous, Day 1 Bags donated 15 wonderfully precious stuffed animals from Mary & Martha, and each duffle bag will have one of these animals as well. Finally, Day 1 Bags donated 100 wooden key chains with one of the following verses: I am smart; I am kind; I am brave; I am strong; I am loved; and I am important. One of these wooden key chains is attached to each duffle bag the child receives.

I cannot commend and thank enough, Day 1 Bags, for their unselfish support of this service project. Each child who enters foster care in James City County, VA, will be provided one of these duffle bags and they will clearly know, that many people care about them, and that they are loved.

Thank you very much, Day 1 Bags, for all the support you have given, to ensure that this service project is a success.

The process for getting bags for youth in foster care was simple and smooth. So thankful to have found Day 1 Bags!

We could not be more grateful to Day 1 Bags! They promptly sent an order of backpacks for our foster youth just in time for the back-to-school season. Thanks to their generous support, The Village Network can ensure that our clients are prepared not only to move residences, if necessary, but to thrive in their foster homes and in their schools. Thank you, Day 1 Bags!

Day 1 Bags is an amazing nonprofit organization that aims to serve the community by returning a sense of dignity that may have been taken from individuals experiencing homelessness, navigating the foster care system or facing some of life's most difficult challenges. We so often see people carrying what remains of their personal items in trash bags, grocery bags, or whatever they can find. By providing these individuals with high quality, durable duffle bags, backpacks and others, they can more safely and effectively store their items as they move from one place to another. We are so appreciative to Day 1 Bags for supporting us in serving the people of Bexar County.

Because of your contribution, we were able to bless 140 students with backpacks this year, and I am very grateful for that. I hope to be able to participate with organizations like Day 1 Bags.

Thank you for blessing my children with backpacks. We were not expecting such a great blessing. We are excited that The Holy One Church can partner with Non-profits like Day 1 Bags to make a difference in all our children's lives.

Dear Day 1 Bags,
Thank you for blessing my child with a backpack. This has been a difficult year financially for our family, and it's the little things that make the biggest difference. Thank you for supporting the Holy One Church Kids camp.

This was an incredible event. The children were all excited to get their supplies. This event is a great way to serve the community and support the families. Great job!

Thank you for all you do for our community, especially for the children

Thank you so much for donating back packs for the LHCC Back To School Bash!!!

They were so sweet at the back to school bash in lakehills.

Amazing group of people and program put together for our community. Thank you!

Great people, helping the kids out at the Lake Hills back to school bash!

So excited to have met these people!! They gave out amazing backpacks! Thanks for all you di

We discovered Day 1 Bags via their comment on our non profit’s social media post, and love how their mission aligns with our own and how easy it was to request and receive supplies! Our organization received an abundance of backpacks and duffel bags that will help many children start their foster care journey out with bags of their very own belongings that are theirs to keep forever ❤️ Thank you Day 1 Bags for your mission and generosity! We love to see non-profits supporting non-profits :)

Love Day 1 Bags and all they do for our youth in foster care! Such great quality items as well!

This company donated many duffle bags to Kiwanis' Duffle Bag Project for foster children. The bags are of super quality, very sturdy and of great size. Thank you to these bags, foster children now gave a good bag to keep their belongings, instead of a plastic garbage bag, as they used to have.

A member of ours began working on a Duffel Bags for Foster Kids project here in Punta Gorda, FL and later expanded it to all of Florida through Kiwanis. Once partnering with Day 1 Bags, we were able to receive an amazing donation of over 2,000 bags allowing us to provide better quality items of comfort and toiletries.
The bags themselves from both Flying Circle and Mint are incredible. The quality is durable, are good sized, has lots of room and pockets and the Mint styles are so fun!
Day 1 Bags is absolutely incredible and as a volunteer organization in Kiwanis, we are so grateful for the efforts that Day 1 Bags for kids all over the United States.

Day 1 Bags has been a tremendous help to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Child Protective Services. They have helped hundreds of children in care with backpacks for school and with what we call "comfort cases". When a child is removed from a dangerous situation in the home, often times they leave with nothing but the clothing on their backs. The children are then provided with a weeks' worth of clothing and a comfort case, a backpack. The comfort cases we build include a pair of pajamas, a blanket, a stuffed animal, hygiene products and activities as well as the backpack. Some of these items are treasures to the children in foster care and they, often times, carry these items for life. Building these cases would not be possible without the help of Day 1 Bags. They have truly been a God send not only to the Department but to the children in care.

We are a small nonprofit organization in Van Zandt County, which provides victimize children in State care basic essentials such as clothing, hygiene items, coats or jackets as well as comfort items. We have struggled to find tote bags in which to place our items for years. Thanks to Day One Bags, we now have beautiful and practical tote bags to supply the children. The children are so appreciative and we are thrilled to be recipients of Day One Bags. Thank you Day One.

I am so blessed by Day 1 Bags for their contribution of duffle bags to the Central FL area! We were given 100 durable duffle bags without hesitation, that our Kiwanis Club of Winter Garden can fill for the foster children that need it most! I’m so excited to work with them again!

For the last two years, we have used Day 1 bags as part of our VBS for 4th & 5th graders and have been nothing short of amazing. As part of our VBS, we want our kids to know they can serve and make an impact on others, and there is no greater model than the people at Day 1. What started as a small dream has reached thousands of people. The people there are helpful and insightful. We hope to partner with them for many more years to come!

As the Governor of the Florida District of Kiwanis, we have really been amazed at the level of giving from Day 1 Bags. As an organization who focuses on helping kids, Florida Kiwanis has partnered with Day 1 Bags on giving numerous bags filled with essential items to organizations who work with kids in foster care. We could not have had as large of an impact as we have had without the generosity of Day 1 Bags. We look forward to continue our partnership in the future. Yours in Service, Prairy Riehl

I've been in Scouting for about 5 years and the entire time I worked towards the goal of achieving the Eagle Rank. As a former foster brother, I quickly chose I project to donate 500 bags to another non profit with the goal to comfort the children in the foster system. It was a very slow process trying to gather all the bags needed as they were expensive causing people to be hesitate to donate them but when I contacted Day 1 Bags they seemed happy to help. We were able to pick up the 500 bags easily allowing my project to go much smoother than if I needed more donations. Thanks alot Day 1 Bags.

Day 1 Bags is absolutely incredible! From their selfless staff to the amazing impact they are making plus high quality bags. I am in the Florida District of Kiwanis and we collectively received their largest donation to date of over 2,000 bags! They worked so hard to help us even though they are based in Texas.
The team there is also extremely great at communication all throughout the process. They help in every which way they can and have such great attention to detail. Day 1 Bags are doing amazing impact and deserve more than a 5/5!

As a former foster family, we are quite familiar with the first night trauma of bringing a new child into the house. Having little for them to wear and dis-shoveled, if any, belongings. When it was time for our son to choose an Eagle Project, he did not hesitate in identifying a need of foster children and foster families. His vision was to prepare 500 comfort bags so families and children would have what they needed on Day 1. This organization shares our vision and is phenomenal at helping those that serve this community in reaching their goals to provide for children in need. Thank you Day 1 Bags for caring about children and families and putting feet to feelings to address the need of others. Phenomenal job!

Such a worthy cause. Our Foster kids never get enough recognition for their achievements. So many awesome volunteers spending their time and talents to provide each graduating senior in Texas Foster Systen a special quilt - plus bags and other goodies. The volunteers that coordinate each region do an outstanding job. Thank you

I am an advocate with The San Antonio Metro Health Violence Prevention Services. I work in collaboration with the San Antonio Police Department Crisis Response Team. I recently assisted a family who experienced family violence who was given two bags for her children. The family truly appreciated the bags given to her children. This is a great assistance to the families in our community.

I truly appreciate the gifts and encouragement you gave me on this awesome accomplishment. I want to extend my "Thank you" for all the gifts. I truly appreciate them. Thank you for the CONGRATULATION cards. I feel so special!

Juliet B.

Thank you so much day 1 bags for my gifts and the letter it really meant a lot and I am forever going to cherish that memorie !
-Rizyn Johnson

Hi,
I want to thank Day 1 Bags for the gifts I recently received. I recently graduated with my high school diploma which I never thought I would receive. I am a person who does not like feeling like all the attention is on me. However, I am grateful for everything I have been gifted during this big accomplishment.

Thank you, Day 1 Bags.

L.L

First off I will start by saying thank you to everyone who was involved with getting this day 1 organization started . I believe this organization is moving in the right direction the amount of help and support I’ve received has been tremendous for me .

The San Antonio Police Department appreciates Day 1 Bags and their contribution in helping us build trusting relationships with the youth of our community. Members of our Crisis Response Team have been able to hand out these bags to multiple children impacted by family violence. The bags are a great reminder to the child that the officer and the community care about them. We look forward to expanding the use of the bags to several more units.

I am a volunteer with Carrying Hope, which provides backpacks filled with all of the necessities for children entering the foster care system. The backpacks we get from Day 1 Bags are a critical component of our work, ensuring these children not only have the clothing, toiletries and other supplies they need, but also a sturdy backpack they can use for school and other activities.

Day 1 bags allowed us to reach out to and help people in our area who are dealing with mental health crises. It’s so important to us that we could contribute our time and support to something that matters so much to us. Their work has made it possible for us to reach so many who need it and it was easy for us to do it!

For our high school youth group outreach project of creating mental health bags, to help an individual going through a mental health crisis, inspired by Day 1 Bags: Day 1 Bags graciously donated 400 bags to our youth group. With the help of their donation we are able to create 400 mental health bags and distribute them around our community to organizations that help individuals through mental health crises. Day 1 Bags has not only helped our organization but a variety of other organizations in our community with mental health and foster care. Providing support for organizations in our community so that more people can help aid the on going mental health crisis. We are so incredibly thankful for Day 1 Bags and all that they do in our community!!

Day 1 Bags is such a generous organization. The teens in foster care in our area receive a duffle bag when they graduate and it is the best quality! We know when we fill it with necessities and fun things that they are receiving a wonderful product that was produced with so much love and care!

I was thrilled to help with gifts for seniors in foster care in our state and Day 1 has provided bags for each senior for several years. These bags are so useful and durable. I know the seniors will find these so helpful as they begin the next phases of their life.

What a gift to restore dignity & joy to youth in foster care!

We're so grateful that Day 1 Bags provides dignity and hope to children and youth experiencing foster care. They are invaluable partners to our organization as we serve children and families impacted by foster care in Arkansas!

This is a great organization with a great mission!

Hunter has a great story and addressing an incredible need for kids in dire need. A simple and compassionate way to bring hope to these children who are often overlooked. A+ work and leadership Hunter!

I recently had the opportunity to visit with Hunter about Day 1 Bags at a local charity event. He is an amazing young man who is working to provide simple necessities to youth after living through similar situations as a young boy. I was thankful that he received a small donation for his organization and look forward to more great things in the future from Hunter as he works to grow his network and impact foster youth all across the country.

What an incredible organization that helps to brighten the day of kids during one of the most challenging moments a child can face!

This is an incredible organization! Each child that receives a Day 1 Bag is deserving of entering a new home environment with dignity and love, and this organization helps provide that. Hunter is a very talented young man, and he could be doing a lot of things that would more financially lucrative to him, but this is a cause that he passionately believes in and is worthy of support.

Day 1 bags are a game changer when it comes to Foster care and First Responders!

I was surprised to hear that over 150,000 trauma bags have been distributed to foster kids in need in over 47 states!