Better Beginnings

Children are removed from their homes and placed into the foster care system as a result of some form of abuse or neglect. Sadly their belongings are often collected in a trash bag.

A child being removed from his or her home deserves the dignity of taking their belongings in a bag of their own. To accomplish this, Schneider Development established an annual event to organize the community to collect and donate new or gently used duffel bags containing toiletries like shampoo, tooth paste, tooth brush, and soap. This program was originally established in 1998 with the Division of Youth and Family Services in NJ and has helped hundreds of children in both New Jersey and Virginia.

“Helping local children in crisis is so important.” said Jim Schneider. “This program gives them a little dignity, and hopefully makes a bad situation a bit less traumatic. I’m hopeful that the community will respond again every year.” he added.

2010 Campaign

The 2010 Better Beginnings campaign is underway! Please join Schneider Development in their "Better Beginnings" program to provide basic necessities to children who are faced with challenges out of their control.

Our focus has expanded this year. Donations will support both Northampton County's Social Services and the CHKD Child Abuse Center.

WHEN:
All donations will be accepted through June 1 (Tuesday)

WHERE:
In Cape Charles:
Schneider Development Office
Rayfield's Pharmacy

In Virginia Beach and Norfolk:
Schneider Development Office
Call for pick up!
Chris Schwab 757.339.9706
chris@schneiderdev.com

CONTRIBUTION SUGGESTIONS:

Personal hygiene totes for teenagers (Items may be placed in a tote or backpack)
– Bath Soap, Shampoo, Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Hair Brush, Combs, deodorant, suntan lotion

Dorm Bags (Items may be placed in a small overnight bag)
– Set of Twin Sheets, Twin Sized Blanket, small mirror

Gift Cards (may be used to purchase additional supplies as needed)
– Target, Wal-Mart, Walgreens, CVS

Monetary Donation
– If you choose to make a monetary donation, please make the checks payable to either Northampton County Social Services or CHKD - Child Abuse Center

Items to be used at CHKD Child Abuse Center during/after therapy
– Boxes of crayons, Cartons of bubbles, finger paints, drawing tablets
– Items for teenagers after medical exams (i.e. School supplies, blank journals, backpacks, music CDs)

Thank you for your continued support!