Who We Are
Mission Statement
The mission of Packs of Hope is to bring hope and dignity to children in crisis. We provide backpacks filled with new essentials to children entering foster care in Colorado, ensuring they feel valued and supported.
Every child deserves to feel valued and supported, and we strive to make a meaningful difference in their lives.
About Us
Packs of Hope was created in 2008 by Michelle Smithling, a compassionate foster parent who understood the challenges children face when entering foster care. Recognizing the urgent needs of these vulnerable kids, Michelle’s heart led her to take action. She wanted to offer comfort during what can be an incredibly difficult time, so she collaborated with Jefferson County to create a meaningful solution: backpacks filled with new clothing, toiletries, comfort items, and a book. With the support of a caring community, Michelle delivered her first fifteen backpacks, marking the beginning of a journey.
Packs of Hope now delivers over 400 backpacks each month to nine counties in the Denver area. Our backpacks are given to children from newborn to 18 years old. Each Pack of Hope includes a shirt, pants, sweatshirt, pajamas, socks, underwear, toiletries, a book, and a toy. All items in the packs are brand new and are specific to the size that the child needs.
The impact of these backpacks extends beyond the children—they serve as a lifeline for caseworkers and foster families too. For many children, selecting their own backpack can be a small yet significant step toward feeling safe and valued in a new environment. Foster families, equipped with a Pack of Hope, can breathe a little easier, knowing they have the essentials needed to welcome a child into their home.
We are committed to making the first 24 hours a smoother journey toward new beginnings.
Our backpacks are filled with enough new clothing and essentials to support children during their first 24 hours in the foster care system. Each backpack is thoughtfully packed with care. We provide new clothing to these children because many have never experienced the joy of wearing something new. It is important to us to offer items that uplift and support their dignity.
Did You Know?
When children enter foster care, they often arrive with only what they’re wearing or sometimes a bag with few belongings.
In the United States there are approximately 437,000 children in foster care.
740 children enter foster care in the United States every day, that’s one child every 2 minutes.
45% of foster children live in non-relative foster family homes.
32% of foster children live in relative foster family homes.
23% of foster children live in institutions, group homes, trial and pre-adoptive homes.
On average, a child can spend almost 12 to 20 months in foster care.
10% of foster children spend more than 5 years in foster care.
118,000 children and youth in America are waiting to be adopted.
30% of children in foster care suffer from PTSD. This is why we add comfort items to their backpacks.
Only 54% of children in foster care graduate from high school.
How You Can Help
Collecting even one item for a child in need can have a powerful impact.
Service Projects
Service projects can profoundly impact the children you serve and inspire your own personal growth. Is your company, school, organization or community/social group seeking a service project? Learn about some of our service projects that have been successful in the past and have greatly supported Packs of Hope.
Donation Drives
Inspire your friends, family, coworkers, or community/social group to come together and collect essential items for Packs of Hope. By hosting a drive, you can play a vital role in filling backpacks with clothing, toiletries, books, and toys that will bring joy and comfort to children in need.
Fulfill a Need
You can help by donating in several ways. Check out our Amazon Wish List and soon-to-be Walmart Registry, and view our monthly needs calendar. Items can be purchased online and shipped directly to us, or you can bring donations from your favorite store. Thank you for your support!
Meet the Team
Coming Soon
Team and Leadership
These faithful volunteers play a crucial role in keeping Packs of Hope running smoothly. Their commitment to serving vulnerable children is truly inspiring. They tackle any task assigned to them with smiles and enthusiasm. We are grateful for their hard work and dedication.