Each Carry Hope comfort bag will include essential items while leaving about 80-90% of the bag available for personal belongings. If donations and space allow, we’ll also add select “nice to have” items. Donation-funded goal items include:

EACH COMFORT BAG INCLUDES:

• 1x Duffle Bag 115L (85L if budget constrained)
• 1x Blanket
• 1x Toiletry Kit
• 1x JCI Journal
• 1x Positivity Booklet
• 1x Compass/Whistle/Flashlight Combo-Tool

NICE TO HAVE

• Chubby Blob Seal Pillow
• Metal Water Bottle
• Stress Ball
• Backpack
• Bag Tag

Note: Items subject to change based on received support.

Who is steering this ship? Co-chairs Kyle Duffy and Arnold Bryant! Here is what they had to say on their inspiration for “Carry Hope” and what this event means to them and foster youth.

Kyle: “While I was not a foster child, I received backpacks and school supplies from programs like this. At the time, I didn’t know they came from the generosity of my community; I just knew they made me feel cared for, and having something of my own meant everything. Carry Hope gives kids entering the foster system that same reminder: they are loved, seen, and not forgotten in the middle of fear, uncertainty, and change. With each duffle bag, card, and essential item, they can carry hope with them wherever they go.”

Arnold: “As a former foster youth, JCI Carry Hope is deeply personal to me because every child deserves to feel valued, respected, and hopeful, especially during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Our goal is to provide more than just essential items; we want to remind these young people that they are not forgotten, that their circumstances do not define them, and that an entire community is rooting for their success.”