Cradles to Crayons Registration and Sign Up Information | cradlestocrayons

Dear Isaac,

School is going to look different this year. But no matter where learning is taking place, kids will always need supplies to feel empowered, and ready to learn.

Cradles to Crayons? continues to serve families with essential items during the pandemic, but we are also looking ahead to what many families will face in the coming months: an uncertain school year, without a way to pay for back-to-school items such as new backpacks, writing utensils, and properly fitting clothes for growing kids. Please consider the following:

55% of low-wage workers with young children reported someone in the household had been laid off since March 16, 2020.
As more families struggle to afford essentials like food and rent, spending an average of $320 a year on school supplies is unrealistic and unaffordable.

As an extension of our ongoing COVID-19 crisis response efforts, Cradles to Crayons' Ready for Learning initiative will provide more than 50,000 local children living in low-income and homeless situations with the school supplies and other essentials they need to start the 2020-2021 school year fully prepared to learn and grow. This includes backpacks, pencils, paper, books, clothes, hygiene products, and other critical essentials.

It is vitally important for children to feel empowered and confident about the new school year after so many months of uncertainty and upheaval. Whether back-to-school this year means returning to a physical classroom among peers, scheduled virtual lessons, or somewhere in between, students will still need school supplies to complete assignments and need other everyday essentials to feel comfortable and ready to learn in any environment.

Cradles to Crayons is committed to being a steady resource for families. Will you join us as we invest in the future and help level the playing field for children hit hardest by the economic impact of the coronavirus by providing the tangible tools they need to succeed? Just $33 will provide one child with head-to-toe essentials: a backpack with school supplies, seasonal clothing, shoes, hygiene products, books, and more.? We hope you can make a gift today!

Thank you for your continued friendship. During these uncertain and unsettling times, we are so grateful that you continue to stand with us.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

After a long and worthwhile wait, we are thrilled to resume accepting new and gently-used items this week! We are astounded by the supportive response from our community throughout the pandemic. Even as we temporarily stopped accepting used items, many of you called and emailed asking how you could help and expressed enthusiasm to donate your items.

For the safety of our community, we will only collect donations in our outdoor units.

Here is an updated list of what we are accepting and where you can drop off donations. Our most critically needed items at this time are everyday shoes, sweaters, and coats.

It may be some time before we can welcome your warm faces back into our warehouse to volunteer. In the meantime, here are a few ideas on how to bring the Giving Factory volunteer experience to your own home!

Requests for our services have dramatically increased during this pandemic and your help is needed more now than ever. We send you sincere thanks for continuing to serve Massachusetts children with us.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Have you ever had to decide between paying for heat, getting groceries, or buying warm winter clothing? For families experiencing poverty, these are real and difficult choices that have to be made.

"Thank you for the coat and hats and gloves.
Whenever I feel really cold I wear them.
Every time I wear them people say ''what a good coat.''
I love them. THANK YOU.
From Sean."

Through our Gear Up for Winter initiative, we plan on providing over 60,000 local children like Sean with clothing, coats, hats, gloves and other cold weather essentials they need to stay warm. By making a gift today, you will be able to double your impact, thanks to a generous, anonymous donor who is matching Gear Up for Winter donations dollar-for-dollar up to $100,000 through December 31.

Please help us bundle up over 60,000 children by donating now. Remember-it's more than a cause, it's a kid. Thank you for your continued support.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Were you prepared for the snow today? Many of the families we serve were not prepared.

This winter, thousands of local families will struggle to pay for rent and groceries, and won''t be able to afford warm clothing and outerwear for their children. These challenges are amplified by the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on low-income families.

Through this year''s Gear Up for Winter initiative, Cradles to Crayons? expects to provide winter coats, hats, gloves, and warm clothing to over 60,000 local children. Without the essential items we provide, most of these children would simply go without-resulting in school absences, missed medical appointments, missed playtime, and even going cold in their own homes.

Help these children "Bundle Up" by supporting Gear Up for Winter. A donation of $33 will help give the gift of warmth to one child. You can make a tangible difference in the life of a child.

Thank you for your support!

With appreciation,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive DIrector

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

In November, The Giving Factory^? is highlighting our need for

Girls 2T & Boys 3T Outfit Packs

In October we launched our annual Give Back with an Outfit Pack program. This month we decided to feature two of our most needed Outfit Pack sizes. Our goal is to collect 1,000 packs by the end of December to ensure these critical cold-weather items reach the children we serve when they need them most.

Can''t complete a full Outfit Pack? Not a problem! You can use this month''s Wish List to help build part of a pack. Support this effort today by selecting an item or two off our Amazon Wish List!

Want to complete a full pack? You can register to complete either a full Outfit Pack or Pajamas, Socks, and Underwear Pack on our website here.

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. We are still collecting face masks! New and homemade masks can either be shipped to or dropped off directly at The Giving Factory.

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks to those who bring love, friendship, and joy to our lives. We all know that family celebrations will look different this year; as you look ahead to your plans, you may be feeling uncertain. But one thing is for certain: It''s the perfect time for us to thank you.

Your support helps Cradles to Crayons? assist thousands of local families by providing children with the everyday essentials they need to thrive at school, at home, and at playtime with friends. Especially during this tumultuous year, we could not be more thankful for you.

On behalf of the entire Cradles to Crayons team, I want to share our heartfelt thanks!

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Were you prepared for the snow today? Many of the families we serve were not prepared.

This winter, thousands of local families will struggle to pay for rent and groceries, and won''t be able to afford warm clothing and outerwear for their children. These challenges are amplified by the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on low-income families.

Through this year''s Gear Up for Winter initiative, Cradles to Crayons? expects to provide winter coats, hats, gloves, and warm clothing to over 60,000 local children. Without the essential items we provide, most of these children would simply go without-resulting in school absences, missed medical appointments, missed playtime, and even going cold in their own homes.

Help these children "Bundle Up" by supporting Gear Up for Winter. A donation of $33 will help give the gift of warmth to one child. You can make a tangible difference in the life of a child.

Thank you for your support!

With appreciation,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive DIrector

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

The generosity of friends like you has made a tremendous impact! Thank you for joining us during this unprecedented time to support the Emergency Essentials Fund-ensuring that Cradles to Crayons??? is a steadfast resource for vulnerable families throughout Massachusetts. Since the beginning of this crisis, with your help, we have served more than 18,000 children providing critical essentials. We have been able to:

distribute diapers and wipes to thousands of families who are in urgent need facing empty store shelves and a limited budget to purchase these vital necessities
provide school supplies and books to children who are adjusting to learning remotely
ensure health and self-esteem by providing hygiene items such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes
make baby clothing packs and provide essential items for new moms who found themselves unprepared when this crisis hit and now can't afford or access baby supplies
deliver toys and educational games for families who are at home with limited resources

It is because of you that all of this, and more, is possible. Please watch this video as I share a special announcement about what we have accomplished.

We can't thank you enough for helping the families who need us most. Together we are creating a caring, thoughtful, and supportive community which is more important now than ever.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

P.S. If you haven't had a chance to support the Emergency Essentials Fund, it is not too late to make a donation. You will help us continue this important work of providing for families now and in the coming months.

.emailview

Even though the marathon looks different this year, the goal of raising much needed funds to help Cradles to Crayons provide vulnerable children throughout Massachusetts with the critical essentials they need to thrive remains the same. Whether our marathon team is running through their neighborhoods, parks, or crossing the finish line on Boylston Street, we are proud of all the work they''ve done!

Help us cheer them on! Show your support for Amy, Jenn, Stephanie, Danielle, Dora, Al, Nick, Didier, and Brian as they run with the children we serve in their hearts by donating here.

Thank you for celebrating our team with us!

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

In August, The Giving Factory^? is highlighting our need for

Children''s Face Masks

Families across Massachusetts are currently preparing for an unprecedented school year. One thing is for certain: face masks are a newly critical back-to-school essential. In fact, current plans in the Commonwealth will require all students grade 2 and above to wear a facial covering. The Center for Disease Control reports that wearing a facial covering is a proven way to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As Cradles to Crayons^? plans to help prepare over 50,000 children this fall as a part of our Ready for Learning initiative, we hope to include face masks as one of the items distributed to help alleviate stress for the families we serve.

Help us ensure every child is fully prepared to return to school by shopping our Amazon Wish List today!

Face masks can also be donated by bringing them (or shipping them) to The Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue Newton, MA 02460. We require that all donated face masks are new, reusable, have ear loops or ties, and are children''s sizes or adult small.

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Even though the marathon looks different this year, the goal of raising much needed funds to help Cradles to Crayons provide vulnerable children throughout Massachusetts with the critical essentials they need to thrive remains the same. Whether our marathon team is running through their neighborhoods, parks, or crossing the finish line on Boylston Street, we are proud of all the work they''ve done!

Help us cheer them on! Show your support for Amy, Jenn, Stephanie, Danielle, Dora, Al, Nick, Didier, and Brian as they run with the children we serve in their hearts by donating here.

Thank you for celebrating our team with us!

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

We still need face masks!

In September, The Giving Factory^? is continuing to highlight our need for

Children''s Face Masks

Across the state, children are beginning to return to in-person learning where they are required to wear face coverings. 90% of our Service Partners surveyed reported that face masks are being asked for, specifically, by the families we serve?. We need your help in making sure every child is able to learn with the proper protection.

Here are three ways you can help:

Shop: Hop online and shop for face masks at your favorite retailer. Remember we require that all face masks are new, reusable, have ear loops or ties, and are children''s sizes or adult small. The masks can be shipped directly to our Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue, Newton, MA 02460. Old Navy, Target, Walmart, and our Amazon Wish List are great places to start!

Make: Are you talented with a sewing machine? We accept homemade face masks! Follow your favorite mask pattern and either drop off or ship your finished product to our Giving Factory. Need a starting point? Try our Homemade Face Mask Guide.

Collect: Mobilize your community or group with any combination of the above options. Come together while remaining safely apart to make sure every child is Ready for Learning!

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Our next Presidential Election Day is November 3, 2020-just one month away. This is a year unlike any other and making sure that all voices are heard is even more critical. We all need to get informed and go vote. It's that simple.

Voter registration will be closing across the United States in October. If you're not registered yet, check here for your state's registration deadline. Not sure if you're registered or not? You can check your status here!

Because of COVID-19, this year's voting process can seem very confusing-it's important to know the facts. This site will help you find resources to navigate your state's voting process. If you already know that you want to vote with a mail-in absentee ballot, make sure you request yours as early as possible-it only takes two minutes! And if you need to know more about the issues and candidates on your ballot, Ballot Ready walks you through what to expect.

Cradles to Crayons? believes that voting is a civic responsibility of the highest priority, so we've joined hundreds of other organizations to sign A Day for Democracy's pledge to provide our staff with the tools and encouragement they need to participate-including the required time off to get their ballot counted.

This election year, our country is looking to us to be one and to be stronger together. Regardless of the choices we make at the polls, we can all unite by committing to showing up for our Democracy and making our vote count.

In other Cradles to Crayons news, we are pleased to announce that this past Tuesday, the third annual Phyllis Yale Impact Award-presented to an organization that demonstrates excellence in collaboration and furthers our shared mission to provide children with the Everyday Essentials they need to thrive-was given to Chicago Partner, I Grow Chicago. The accompanying $10,000 grant will be used to expand their Born To Thrive program and its emphasis on meeting participants' basic needs.

"This gift will engage 40 students throughout the entire school year with virtual learning support, in-person tutoring, after school programming, and basic needs sponsorship," said Executive Director, Sol Anderson. "We started this program because we believe children deserve more than just survival, and we are proud to partner with Cradles to Crayons in the fight for a world where all children can thrive." We are thrilled to have I Grow Chicago as a partner and recipient of this National award.

While we all continue to do the best we can throughout the pandemic, I am hopeful for the hard work and commitment of all our Partners and staff, who continue to put kids first every day. It is that hope that I will take with me when I vote in November, remembering that my voice is just one of millions that will be heard this year.

Stay safe,

Lynn Margherio, Founder and CEO

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Over the past week, our marathon team laced up their sneakers, put on their purple singlets, and ran 26.2 miles through their own communities to benefit Cradles to Crayons^? as part of the first-ever virtual Boston Marathon. We want to extend a huge congratulations and thank you to our nine runners!

Together, they have raised $74,318 to help Cradles to Crayons provide thousands of vulnerable children in Massachusetts with the critical essentials they need to thrive. Their dedication to our mission ensures that we can continue to be a steadfast resource now and in the coming months for the families in our community who need us the most.

There's still time to support their amazing effort! Help us celebrate our team of runners-Amy, Jenn, Stephanie, Danielle, Dora, Al, Nick, Didier, and Brian-by donating here.

Thank you for helping us cheer on our team!

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Luke,

We are excited to announce that Cradles to Crayons^??has partnered with ScrubaDub again this year, this time to support our Ready for Learning initiative-with the goal of providing face masks and school supplies to children in need.

From August 17-23, you can donate to Cradles to Crayons and receive a complimentary service from ScrubaDub:

Donate $10 online?and receive a FREE Express Car Wash.
Visit any ScrubaDub location and donate $5 to Cradles to Crayons to receive a complimentary UltraShine Hot Wax on your vehicle. Every $5 donation provides one child with face masks and school supplies.

ScrubaDub has graciously agreed to accept monetary donations on our behalf to make it convenient for our donors to receive their complimentary service quickly.

Help us get local kids Ready for Learning!

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

By the end of a typical August, my 10- and 12-year-old kids, my husband, and I are always ready for school to start. The kids want to be out of the house and with their friends-and though they don''t admit it, they look forward to the structure of school rhythms and routines. Dinner conversations are full of their anticipation: Which teachers will I have? Who''s in my class? Where is my homeroom? Conversations with my husband focus on fall work plans and projects. All of us are excited to reclaim our independence and get to work.

But this September, after being around each other 24x7 for six straight months, we would really like a typical school year to start. ("Helicopter parenting" has taken on a whole new meaning here.) However, the glaringly missing roadmap for "school in a pandemic" is a significant source of concern. This uncomfortable anxiety about the coming school year is new for me and our family-and likely for many of you as well. But, back-to-school challenges are hardly unusual for those working hard to make ends meet. Millions of American families struggle to provide all the tools needed for school readiness-and there is already an enormous gap in educational access. The impacts of COVID-19 will push that even wider.?

More than 70% of American students will be learning from home full or part time this fall. No one wanted this reality for anyone, but it will prove to be most challenging for kids in low-income families, facing homelessness, or with disabilities. The barriers to a successful online K-12 school experience are enormous and many kids do not have appropriate, functioning devices or access to affordable, reliable WiFi coverage. Parents and caregivers of low-income children are more likely to have lost jobs during the pandemic. They worry about putting food on the table and being evicted from their homes. Many who continue to work outside the home can't afford or don't have access to reliable child care-they need the income but obviously can''t leave their children without supervision. If these struggles weren't enough, living spaces are often tight and lack the privacy needed to focus on learning or work.

So, how do we put hope back into this overwhelming reality? We need to do all that we can to support our kids so they can learn. As individuals, we need to make up for missing support systems. Together, we can gain momentum and move things forward.

Practice safe social distancing. The pandemic needs to be under control to make school safe and reestablished as a critical resource families can rely on. We can all do our part by wearing masks, giving people space, and following the recommended travel and gathering guidelines.
Call your Elected Officials and make your voice heard. Share your support for National and State legislation to invest in our schools, expand safety net programs, support nonprofit organizations, and fund critical public health needs.
Add another child to your back-to-school shopping list. Double your school supply order and donate the supplies to cover a child in your community. Check out Cradles to Crayons' most-needed items here.?
Get active in your community. Your help is needed in many places, in many ways. Volunteer to do anything: Help at our Giving Factories?, tutor, distribute food, recruit voters-VolunteerMatch has searchable opportunities everywhere. Support the causes doing the work you care about with a financial gift. Funding nonprofit organizations is crucial.

Cradles to Crayons will continue to do our part and be there year-round to help students and families get through these times-you can be sure of that. We've provided backpacks and learning supplies for 125,000 kids across our One Cradles to Crayons network for kids starting their school year. We're keeping growing kids in clothing that fits-outfits they''re excited and proud to wear. We''re providing diapers, hygiene supplies, masks, and other items so parents have fewer things to worry about when they are buying food or paying bills. We will also continue to make our Giving Factories? safe and welcoming for staff and volunteers.

Thank you to everyone who is out there helping-no effort is too big or too small. And thank you for donating gently used clothing and responding to requests for new items and financial support. We are one and we are stronger together.?

Wishing you safety and strength,

Lynn Margherio, Founder and CEO

.emailview

Dear Luke,

After a long and worthwhile wait, we are thrilled to resume accepting new and gently-used items this week! We are astounded by the supportive response from our community throughout the pandemic. Even as we temporarily stopped accepting used items, many of you called and emailed asking how you could help and expressed enthusiasm to donate your items.

For the safety of our community, we will only collect donations in our outdoor units.

Here is an updated list of what we are accepting and where you can drop off donations. Our most critically needed items at this time are everyday shoes, sweaters, and coats.

It may be some time before we can welcome your warm faces back into our warehouse to volunteer. In the meantime, here are a few ideas on how to bring the Giving Factory volunteer experience to your own home!

Requests for our services have dramatically increased during this pandemic and your help is needed more now than ever. We send you sincere thanks for continuing to serve Massachusetts children with us.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

For many, a snowstorm like the one we saw this week means playing in the snow or staying warm inside. At the same time, there are over 270,000 local children living in low-income and homeless situations across Massachusetts who don''t have the items they need to stay warm, whether inside or outside. By making a gift today, YOU can change a child''s life and be the reason they can play outside this winter, stay warm at night, or stay comfortable while learning.

Support for our Gear Up for Winter initiative will help us provide over 60,000 children with the cold weather essentials they need to stay safe and warm this winter, including coats, hats, gloves, boots, warm clothing for a week, and more.

Act before December 31 to have your donation matched dollar-for-dollar (up to $100,000) by an anonymous donor and DOUBLE your impact! ?

With great appreciation,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Have you ever had to decide between paying for heat, getting groceries, or buying warm winter clothing? For families experiencing poverty, these are real and difficult choices that have to be made.

"Thank you for the coat and hats and gloves.
Whenever I feel really cold I wear them.
Every time I wear them people say ''what a good coat.''
I love them. THANK YOU.
From Sean."

Through our Gear Up for Winter initiative, we plan on providing over 60,000 local children like Sean with clothing, coats, hats, gloves and other cold weather essentials they need to stay warm. By making a gift today, you will be able to double your impact, thanks to a generous, anonymous donor who is matching Gear Up for Winter donations dollar-for-dollar up to $100,000 through December 31.

Please help us bundle up over 60,000 children by donating now. Remember-it's more than a cause, it's a kid. Thank you for your continued support.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

In December, The Giving Factory^? is highlighting our need for

Winter Hats & Gloves

Winter brings freezing temperatures and puts children without adequate protection at risk for cold-weather illness and injury. Since October, we have already received nearly 8,000 orders for hats and gloves. Help us keep children warm this winter by shopping our Amazon Wish List today!

Or, do you have extra winter coats, hats, and gloves taking up room in your closet? We accept both new and gently used coats, hats, and gloves from size newborn to adult medium. Consider donating your extra winter gear at our Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue, Newton, MA.

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. We are still collecting face masks! New and homemade masks can either be shipped to or dropped off directly at The Giving Factory.

.emailview

Dear Luke,

In December, The Giving Factory^? is highlighting our need for

Winter Hats & Gloves

Winter brings freezing temperatures and puts children without adequate protection at risk for cold-weather illness and injury. Since October, we have already received nearly 8,000 orders for hats and gloves. Help us keep children warm this winter by shopping our Amazon Wish List today!

Or, do you have extra winter coats, hats, and gloves taking up room in your closet? We accept both new and gently used coats, hats, and gloves from size newborn to adult medium. Consider donating your extra winter gear at our Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue, Newton, MA.

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. We are still collecting face masks! New and homemade masks can either be shipped to or dropped off directly at The Giving Factory.

.emailview

Dear Luke,

For many, a snowstorm like the one we saw this week means playing in the snow or staying warm inside. At the same time, there are over 270,000 local children living in low-income and homeless situations across Massachusetts who don''t have the items they need to stay warm, whether inside or outside. By making a gift today, YOU can change a child''s life and be the reason they can play outside this winter, stay warm at night, or stay comfortable while learning.

Support for our Gear Up for Winter initiative will help us provide over 60,000 children with the cold weather essentials they need to stay safe and warm this winter, including coats, hats, gloves, boots, warm clothing for a week, and more.

Act before December 31 to have your donation matched dollar-for-dollar (up to $100,000) by an anonymous donor and DOUBLE your impact! ?

With great appreciation,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Luke,

In July, The Giving Factory? is highlighting our need for

Everyday Footwear

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends being outside when you can maintain a safe social distance, making this a crucial time for all kids to have the appropriate footwear for outdoor use. Shoes can be especially hard to provide due to the cost and financial hardship many families are facing right now.

Last year, Cradles to Crayons? received over 60,000 requests for everyday shoes. We expect to see the same demand this year, if not more.

Help us ensure every child has the proper footwear they need to have a safe and fun summer by shopping our Amazon Wish List today!

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Our annual Give Back with an Outfit Pack initiative has gone virtual!

This Giving Season, support a local child with either an Outfit Pack or a Pajamas, Socks, and Underwear Pack with the option of shopping from your home or in stores. From now through the end of December, we will be collecting completed packs to provide the children we serve with essential clothing items to keep them warm this winter.

Our goal is to collect 1,000 packs by the end of December to ensure these critical cold-weather items reach the children we serve when they need them most.

Getting involved is easy:

Head on over to the Give Back with an Outfit Pack webpage and sign up to complete either an Outfit Pack or Pajamas, Socks, and Underwear Pack. You will receive your tag with a shopping list within 3-5 business days of registering.
Shop for the Outfit Pack items at your favorite store or purge your closet for new and like-new clothing.
- All Old Navy locations are offering $10 off your purchase of $50 or more. Coupons are located on the back of each downloadable tag!
- Don''t want to leave the house? Shop your favorite online store or the custom Amazon Wish List located on each tag. Items can be shipped directly to The Giving Factory^?.
Return your completed pack by either shipping or dropping off your pack directly at our Giving Factory. Let us know the tag is complete by completing this survey.

Thank you for your continued support this Giving Season. It is people like you who help us at Cradles to Crayons^? make a tangible difference in the lives of the children we serve.

Warmly,
Molly Walsh, Boston Community Engagement

Want to get involved by hosting a donation drive? Email Molly at mwalsh@cradlestocrayons.org.

Donate Now

Amazon Wish List

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

In October, The Giving Factory^? is highlighting our need for

Sweaters

As temperatures begin to drop, children need appropriate layers to keep them warm while they learn and play. Last year we received almost 20,000 requests for sweaters. Help us get a jump start by donating a sweater or two off our Amazon Wish List today!

Did you know? We accept sweaters, both new and gently-used, in sizes from Newborn through Adult Medium. Have a sweater at home that could use a new home? The donation bin outside our Giving Factory is open for donations!

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. We are still collecting face masks! New and homemade masks can either be shipped or dropped off directly at The Giving Factory.

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Due to Giving Factory constraints, Cradles to Crayons^? has made the decision to temporarily close our donation bins at all offsite drop-off locations. We have been amazed and humbled by the generosity of our community members - reflected in the incredible volume of new and gently used items collected. Donations of clothing and footwear can still be dropped off at our Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue in Newton. Please make sure your donations meet our quality standards and that they are secured neatly in a bag or box. When you arrive with donations, please place them in one of the unlocked Packrat storage containers in the front parking lot. We appreciate your patience and understanding!

How You Can Help Us

Now, we need volunteers! Our volunteers are the heart and soul of our mission and we are thrilled to announce that we have resumed volunteer shifts at our Giving Factory. Safety remains the top priority, and we have modified the Giving Factory experience to ensure social distancing. View some of our safety measures here. Sign up for a shift in our Newton Giving Factory today!

Through our new Giving Factory at Home initiative, community members also have the option of picking up clothing that has been quarantined to sort and size at home! Email communityboston@cradlestocrayons.org to learn more.

We are excited to once again be able to welcome you, your friends, your family, and your coworkers back to our Giving Factory. Come roll up your sleeves and help us to build book packs, create outfit packs, size clothing, and more, to help provide these essential items to local children.

We are so thankful for the continued support from our community. We hope to see you back at the Giving Factory soon!

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Luke,

By the end of a typical August, my 10- and 12-year-old kids, my husband, and I are always ready for school to start. The kids want to be out of the house and with their friends-and though they don''t admit it, they look forward to the structure of school rhythms and routines. Dinner conversations are full of their anticipation: Which teachers will I have? Who''s in my class? Where is my homeroom? Conversations with my husband focus on fall work plans and projects. All of us are excited to reclaim our independence and get to work.

But this September, after being around each other 24x7 for six straight months, we would really like a typical school year to start. ("Helicopter parenting" has taken on a whole new meaning here.) However, the glaringly missing roadmap for "school in a pandemic" is a significant source of concern. This uncomfortable anxiety about the coming school year is new for me and our family-and likely for many of you as well. But, back-to-school challenges are hardly unusual for those working hard to make ends meet. Millions of American families struggle to provide all the tools needed for school readiness-and there is already an enormous gap in educational access. The impacts of COVID-19 will push that even wider.?

More than 70% of American students will be learning from home full or part time this fall. No one wanted this reality for anyone, but it will prove to be most challenging for kids in low-income families, facing homelessness, or with disabilities. The barriers to a successful online K-12 school experience are enormous and many kids do not have appropriate, functioning devices or access to affordable, reliable WiFi coverage. Parents and caregivers of low-income children are more likely to have lost jobs during the pandemic. They worry about putting food on the table and being evicted from their homes. Many who continue to work outside the home can't afford or don't have access to reliable child care-they need the income but obviously can''t leave their children without supervision. If these struggles weren't enough, living spaces are often tight and lack the privacy needed to focus on learning or work.

So, how do we put hope back into this overwhelming reality? We need to do all that we can to support our kids so they can learn. As individuals, we need to make up for missing support systems. Together, we can gain momentum and move things forward.

Practice safe social distancing. The pandemic needs to be under control to make school safe and reestablished as a critical resource families can rely on. We can all do our part by wearing masks, giving people space, and following the recommended travel and gathering guidelines.
Call your Elected Officials and make your voice heard. Share your support for National and State legislation to invest in our schools, expand safety net programs, support nonprofit organizations, and fund critical public health needs.
Add another child to your back-to-school shopping list. Double your school supply order and donate the supplies to cover a child in your community. Check out Cradles to Crayons' most-needed items here.?
Get active in your community. Your help is needed in many places, in many ways. Volunteer to do anything: Help at our Giving Factories?, tutor, distribute food, recruit voters-VolunteerMatch has searchable opportunities everywhere. Support the causes doing the work you care about with a financial gift. Funding nonprofit organizations is crucial.

Cradles to Crayons will continue to do our part and be there year-round to help students and families get through these times-you can be sure of that. We've provided backpacks and learning supplies for 125,000 kids across our One Cradles to Crayons network for kids starting their school year. We're keeping growing kids in clothing that fits-outfits they''re excited and proud to wear. We''re providing diapers, hygiene supplies, masks, and other items so parents have fewer things to worry about when they are buying food or paying bills. We will also continue to make our Giving Factories? safe and welcoming for staff and volunteers.

Thank you to everyone who is out there helping-no effort is too big or too small. And thank you for donating gently used clothing and responding to requests for new items and financial support. We are one and we are stronger together.?

Wishing you safety and strength,

Lynn Margherio, Founder and CEO

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Kick off this holiday season by giving a child the gift of warmth! There are more than 277,000 children under the age of 12 in Massachusetts who will struggle to stay warm this winter. Especially amidst the coronavirus pandemic when resources are scarce, there is an URGENT need for warm winter gear. I invite you to support Cradles to Crayons? and our Gear Up for Winter initiative for Giving Tuesday.

Simply click here to visit our website and make a gift. Just $33 will help us dress a child from head to toe. I hope that we can count on your kindness to ensure that the children we serve are safe and warm during New England''s harsh winter months.

You can make DOUBLE the impact by giving right now: Make a gift before December 31 to have your donation matched dollar-for-dollar (up to $100,000) by an anonymous donor!

Please help us address this critical need (just one click away!), and thank you for your continued support.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

In July, The Giving Factory? is highlighting our need for

Everyday Footwear

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends being outside when you can maintain a safe social distance, making this a crucial time for all kids to have the appropriate footwear for outdoor use. Shoes can be especially hard to provide due to the cost and financial hardship many families are facing right now.

Last year, Cradles to Crayons? received over 60,000 requests for everyday shoes. We expect to see the same demand this year, if not more.

Help us ensure every child has the proper footwear they need to have a safe and fun summer by shopping our Amazon Wish List today!

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Luke,

We still need face masks!

In September, The Giving Factory^? is continuing to highlight our need for

Children''s Face Masks

Across the state, children are beginning to return to in-person learning where they are required to wear face coverings. 90% of our Service Partners surveyed reported that face masks are being asked for, specifically, by the families we serve?. We need your help in making sure every child is able to learn with the proper protection.

Here are three ways you can help:

Shop: Hop online and shop for face masks at your favorite retailer. Remember we require that all face masks are new, reusable, have ear loops or ties, and are children''s sizes or adult small. The masks can be shipped directly to our Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue, Newton, MA 02460. Old Navy, Target, Walmart, and our Amazon Wish List are great places to start!

Make: Are you talented with a sewing machine? We accept homemade face masks! Follow your favorite mask pattern and either drop off or ship your finished product to our Giving Factory. Need a starting point? Try our Homemade Face Mask Guide.

Collect: Mobilize your community or group with any combination of the above options. Come together while remaining safely apart to make sure every child is Ready for Learning!

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Each winter, demand for our services is so high that the number of items we distribute nearly doubles. With temperatures falling, the families we serve need our support more than ever. This Giving Season, there are many ways you can help support Cradles to Crayons?.

Shop our Amazon Wish List to find and purchase our most-needed items-warm layers and winter gear-in addition to other items that are challenging to secure. Orders through our Wish List will be sent directly to our Giving Factory in Newton where they will be packaged and delivered to children in need.

Choose "Cradles to Crayons, Inc." as your charity of choice on Amazon Smile. Then shop as you normally would and a percentage of your purchase price will go directly to Cradles to Crayons at no additional cost to you!

Shop for a Giving Tree tag in stores or online. This year, we have Giving Trees set up at Patriot Place, South Shore Plaza, the Prudential Center, and the Marketplace Center at Faneuil Hall. Not comfortable shopping in stores? No problem! Items can be bought online and shipped directly to our Giving Factory.

Sign up for a Give Back with an Outfit Pack tag. Give Back with an Outfit Pack allows donors like you to shop for a week''s worth of clothing for a child OR a pajamas, socks, and underwear pack. Those who sign up will receive their tag in 3-5 business days.

Help us collect children''s face masks through our partnership with ThreadTech. For every two masks bought through November 30, one will be donated to Cradles to Crayons. There is also an option to have masks donated directly to us! Many local children are in need of comfortable, high-quality masks so they can stay safe.

Thank you so much for helping us provide warm essentials to over 60,000 local children this winter!

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Luke,

We've never seen a summer like this-school graduations translated into drive-by parades, access to libraries' summer reading and activity programs postponed or moved online, camps and pools closed or following protocol that makes it all feel a little less like the free spirit that typically comes with summertime.

While we continue to process the fluctuating impacts of COVID-19-and the families who face increasing or new financial hardship-we also know one thing to be very true: Kids are still being kids. Babies are still being born. They're still growing. They're still learning. They're still taking in this world every day through their own development-even if everything is a little different right now.

Over the past few months, Cradles to Crayons? has continued to pivot and focus on our children and families' greatest needs as more children are finding that last year's shorts and shirts are too small, their sneakers are starting to pinch their toes, and the support that often comes from schools and summer programs isn't there to help offset other needs-making access to clothing and diapers more essential than ever. Fold in the loss of jobs and the exponentially increased hardship on already vulnerable Black and Latinx communities, and we see an unprecedented demand that needs urgent solutions.

Clothing has quickly emerged as one of our most needed items across all our locations-Chicagoland, Greater Philadelphia, and Massachusetts-as the pandemic continues and the season changes.

Here are just a few stats to reflect on:

Coming into the pandemic, most Americans had limited resources to weather even a $400 crisis
More than 40 million jobless claims were filed during the pandemic by mid-May
Food insecurity has increased drastically:
- 18 million children are expected to experience food insecurity in 2020
- People of Color are most impacted by the pandemic and rising food insecurity-in some of our service communities, 1 in 2 Black and Latinx Americans are experiencing food insecurity already
Diaper need increased 300% across the United States and in May we distributed more than 1 million diapers-compared to 90,000 last May, an increase of 1,243%. As of this week, we've distributed a total of 2.5 million across our network.

It is absolutely imperative that right now we all prioritize leading with empathy and come together as one community to get through this and on to real and sustainable change. We may not see the long-term outcomes of our work now-but our children will, and we need to always put them first.

For now, Cradles to Crayons has started our gradual "reopening." We're accepting new and gently used donations in limited locations. Our staff is back in The Giving Factories sorting, quality checking, and delivering KidPack orders. Soon we'll be sharing our safety plan for welcoming volunteers back!

We're looking ahead to what "school" is going to look like in the fall-and how to prepare our young learners for success, no matter what their classroom ends up being. Our Ready for Learning program will ensure that 125,000 children across our Organization can focus on their lessons with the tools and supplies they need.

We are also in the process of developing an innovative new way to give back-a digital model that allows you to ship your high-quality children's clothing directly to individual children, from the safety and convenience of your own home! We have piloted this model in Chicago and Boston with incredibly positive results. We will keep you updated on this ground-breaking initiative as it develops.

Through these difficult times, I find hope and inspiration from the energy and example of those who put the needs of the community first. From our front-line health and safety workers, to Black Lives Matter marchers, to the Cradles to Crayons Champions who have sorted and packed socks and underwear in their homes for months-this energy is palpable, and it will move us forward.

From all of us at Cradles to Crayons, thank you for all that you do to support our mission and your community. We wish you a safe, healthy, and happy Independence Day!

Best,

Lynn Margherio, Founder and CEO

P.S.: I had the pleasure of sharing our work and my story with Authority Magazine-you can check it out here!

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Diversity is our Strength, Inclusivity our Bond

This weekend, people of all backgrounds took to the streets in our Cradles to Crayons' communities and across the nation to protest the brutal killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, and the continued violence, discrimination, and racism toward Black Americans. Vigils are planned, social justice policy discussions have taken on a heightened urgency, racism and injustice capture Zoom meetings and classroom discussions. My husband is Black and my kids are biracial, so this is profoundly personal to me.

Will this crisis finally move our country toward greater equity, or will the instigators of division and hatred pull us further apart? This goes right to the heart of Cradles to Crayons' cultural values-our norms and behaviors-that serve as our North Star as we work toward realizing our vision where all children will be able to access what they need to reach their potential.

Diversity is our Strength, Inclusivity our Bond

We believe in the dignity of all our coworkers, and in every child and family who we serve. We seek to foster empathy for others through service to our community and intentionality for how we fulfill our mission. You are an integral part of our mission and our community.

We Speak the Truth and Face the Facts

These last ten weeks have been among the most difficult in our country's history. Our nation is hurting. We are all hurting. But People of Color bear an outsized burden in this pandemic-with Black Americans with COVID-19 dying at twice the rate of White Americans and 45% of Black households reporting job or wage loss in the early months of the pandemic. These communities also make up a large percentage of the essential workforce-in grocery stores, transit systems, delivery services, and health care. Structural discrimination and ongoing racism put these communities at greater risk for violence, poor health outcomes, and disparities in education.

Kids Come First

Cradles to Crayons holds a fundamental belief: Everyone deserves the essentials they need to thrive and survive. Our mission of providing essentials to children flows from that belief. Our vision is that one day, all children will be able to access what they need to reach their potential.

We Lead the Way

This starts with leading by example. We take a stand for what's right. And we bring others along with us. Our kids are not too young to talk about race. We can have age-appropriate conversations about everyone's role in ending the racism and violence in our country. My kids' school shared these resources.

We are One and We are Stronger Together

For the healing to start, we must recognize the injustices and push for a new beginning, together.

We hope you find the healing through the discomfort so we can all navigate towards a better tomorrow.

Stay safe, stay strong,

Lynn Margherio, Founder and CEO

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Diversity is our Strength, Inclusivity our Bond

This weekend, people of all backgrounds took to the streets in our Cradles to Crayons' communities and across the nation to protest the brutal killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, and the continued violence, discrimination, and racism toward Black Americans. Vigils are planned, social justice policy discussions have taken on a heightened urgency, racism and injustice capture Zoom meetings and classroom discussions. My husband is Black and my kids are biracial, so this is profoundly personal to me.

Will this crisis finally move our country toward greater equity, or will the instigators of division and hatred pull us further apart? This goes right to the heart of Cradles to Crayons' cultural values-our norms and behaviors-that serve as our North Star as we work toward realizing our vision where all children will be able to access what they need to reach their potential.

Diversity is our Strength, Inclusivity our Bond

We believe in the dignity of all our coworkers, and in every child and family who we serve. We seek to foster empathy for others through service to our community and intentionality for how we fulfill our mission. You are an integral part of our mission and our community.

We Speak the Truth and Face the Facts

These last ten weeks have been among the most difficult in our country's history. Our nation is hurting. We are all hurting. But People of Color bear an outsized burden in this pandemic-with Black Americans with COVID-19 dying at twice the rate of White Americans and 45% of Black households reporting job or wage loss in the early months of the pandemic. These communities also make up a large percentage of the essential workforce-in grocery stores, transit systems, delivery services, and health care. Structural discrimination and ongoing racism put these communities at greater risk for violence, poor health outcomes, and disparities in education.

Kids Come First

Cradles to Crayons holds a fundamental belief: Everyone deserves the essentials they need to thrive and survive. Our mission of providing essentials to children flows from that belief. Our vision is that one day, all children will be able to access what they need to reach their potential.

We Lead the Way

This starts with leading by example. We take a stand for what's right. And we bring others along with us. Our kids are not too young to talk about race. We can have age-appropriate conversations about everyone's role in ending the racism and violence in our country. My kids' school shared these resources.

We are One and We are Stronger Together

For the healing to start, we must recognize the injustices and push for a new beginning, together.

We hope you find the healing through the discomfort so we can all navigate towards a better tomorrow.

Stay safe, stay strong,

Lynn Margherio, Founder and CEO

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Over the past week, our marathon team laced up their sneakers, put on their purple singlets, and ran 26.2 miles through their own communities to benefit Cradles to Crayons^? as part of the first-ever virtual Boston Marathon. We want to extend a huge congratulations and thank you to our nine runners!

Together, they have raised $74,318 to help Cradles to Crayons provide thousands of vulnerable children in Massachusetts with the critical essentials they need to thrive. Their dedication to our mission ensures that we can continue to be a steadfast resource now and in the coming months for the families in our community who need us the most.

There's still time to support their amazing effort! Help us celebrate our team of runners-Amy, Jenn, Stephanie, Danielle, Dora, Al, Nick, Didier, and Brian-by donating here.

Thank you for helping us cheer on our team!

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

We are excited to announce that Cradles to Crayons^??has partnered with ScrubaDub again this year, this time to support our Ready for Learning initiative-with the goal of providing face masks and school supplies to children in need.

From August 17-23, you can donate to Cradles to Crayons and receive a complimentary service from ScrubaDub:

Donate $10 online?and receive a FREE Express Car Wash.
Visit any ScrubaDub location and donate $5 to Cradles to Crayons to receive a complimentary UltraShine Hot Wax on your vehicle. Every $5 donation provides one child with face masks and school supplies.

ScrubaDub has graciously agreed to accept monetary donations on our behalf to make it convenient for our donors to receive their complimentary service quickly.

Help us get local kids Ready for Learning!

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Our annual Give Back with an Outfit Pack initiative has gone virtual!

This Giving Season, support a local child with either an Outfit Pack or a Pajamas, Socks, and Underwear Pack with the option of shopping from your home or in stores. From now through the end of December, we will be collecting completed packs to provide the children we serve with essential clothing items to keep them warm this winter.

Our goal is to collect 1,000 packs by the end of December to ensure these critical cold-weather items reach the children we serve when they need them most.

Getting involved is easy:

Head on over to the Give Back with an Outfit Pack webpage and sign up to complete either an Outfit Pack or Pajamas, Socks, and Underwear Pack. You will receive your tag with a shopping list within 3-5 business days of registering.
Shop for the Outfit Pack items at your favorite store or purge your closet for new and like-new clothing.
- All Old Navy locations are offering $10 off your purchase of $50 or more. Coupons are located on the back of each downloadable tag!
- Don''t want to leave the house? Shop your favorite online store or the custom Amazon Wish List located on each tag. Items can be shipped directly to The Giving Factory^?.
Return your completed pack by either shipping or dropping off your pack directly at our Giving Factory. Let us know the tag is complete by completing this survey.

Thank you for your continued support this Giving Season. It is people like you who help us at Cradles to Crayons^? make a tangible difference in the lives of the children we serve.

Warmly,
Molly Walsh, Boston Community Engagement

Want to get involved by hosting a donation drive? Email Molly at mwalsh@cradlestocrayons.org.

Donate Now

Amazon Wish List

.emailview

Dear Luke,

In November, The Giving Factory^? is highlighting our need for

Girls 2T & Boys 3T Outfit Packs

In October we launched our annual Give Back with an Outfit Pack program. This month we decided to feature two of our most needed Outfit Pack sizes. Our goal is to collect 1,000 packs by the end of December to ensure these critical cold-weather items reach the children we serve when they need them most.

Can''t complete a full Outfit Pack? Not a problem! You can use this month''s Wish List to help build part of a pack. Support this effort today by selecting an item or two off our Amazon Wish List!

Want to complete a full pack? You can register to complete either a full Outfit Pack or Pajamas, Socks, and Underwear Pack on our website here.

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. We are still collecting face masks! New and homemade masks can either be shipped to or dropped off directly at The Giving Factory.

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

"Don''t ever diminish the power of words. Words move hearts and hearts move limbs."

-Hamza Yusuf

During these past five months of our new reality, I''ve seen the power of communication heal and unite, as well as divide and hurt. Daily, I strive to be a source of healing, but know that too often, I'm also responsible for hurt. Finding the right words-knowing what to say and how or when to say it-is even more challenging when we operate under stress, yet it is vital that we try our hardest to do it well. As partners and parents, as leaders and members of teams at work, as neighbors and members of a community-we need to use our words thoughtfully, but not be afraid to speak out.

I'm learning how important it is to reflect and be a better listener at home-it makes for a happier place. (For everyone's sake, I should make a rule to put myself in a mandatory "time out" after I've had my 3rd cup of coffee and have been binge-reading the news.) I can't escape the stress of seeing the ever-escalating number of COVID-19 cases, the unemployment figures, or concerns and fears about what school will look like this fall for our children-and I'm guaranteed to get short with my family or get on my soapbox. Nobody wins.

What if I gave myself permission and space to feel these feelings-for them to wash over me? I may still feel the stress. But, I could identify the source of the feeling and be empowered to decide what to do with it. I could move past it and focus on being a better listener. I could appreciate the weight of my own words.

At work, we've had to make some tough decisions-like temporarily shutting down volunteer shifts and recycled product donations (we've recently reopened both in limited capacity) at the same time that demand for our goods has spiked. I see how hard it is for our staff to be sorting donations in 90 degree heat, trying to do the work of thousands of volunteers. I know that this new reality will be ours for some time to come. I struggle with finding the right words that are empathetic, supportive, appreciative, and inspiring all at the same time.

I have to remember that what''s best is to "speak the truth and face the facts," so that we can all tap into our shared motivation to serve local children-even in challenging times.

We are all part of something bigger than our families or our workplaces. Each of us is feeling a loss of freedom and it hurts. But some of our neighbors are shouldering a much larger burden.

We cannot afford to be silent. Our words are needed for healing, for unifying. A heart-felt thank you to the cashier at the grocery store. A phone call to check in on a senior who is sheltering in place. Full-throated support of #BlackLivesMatter. And telling your elected officials that you support relief bills to provide a robust safety net for our neighbors who are struggling; to invest in our schools; to build the health care infrastructure we require; and to make our communities fully and truly sustainable.

Words are powerful. They matter.

Our words can help paint a picture of a shared, common humanity-where every person is treated with respect and dignity.

Let us find the words that "move hearts and.limbs." Together, we can "leverage our collective genius" and harness our energy to come together to support children and families when they need it most.

#strongertogether

Wishing you health, safety, and courage,

Lynn Margherio, Founder and CEO

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Each winter, demand for our services is so high that the number of items we distribute nearly doubles. With temperatures falling, the families we serve need our support more than ever. This Giving Season, there are many ways you can help support Cradles to Crayons?.

Shop our Amazon Wish List to find and purchase our most-needed items-warm layers and winter gear-in addition to other items that are challenging to secure. Orders through our Wish List will be sent directly to our Giving Factory in Newton where they will be packaged and delivered to children in need.

Choose "Cradles to Crayons, Inc." as your charity of choice on Amazon Smile. Then shop as you normally would and a percentage of your purchase price will go directly to Cradles to Crayons at no additional cost to you!

Shop for a Giving Tree tag in stores or online. This year, we have Giving Trees set up at Patriot Place, South Shore Plaza, the Prudential Center, and the Marketplace Center at Faneuil Hall. Not comfortable shopping in stores? No problem! Items can be bought online and shipped directly to our Giving Factory.

Sign up for a Give Back with an Outfit Pack tag. Give Back with an Outfit Pack allows donors like you to shop for a week''s worth of clothing for a child OR a pajamas, socks, and underwear pack. Those who sign up will receive their tag in 3-5 business days.

Help us collect children''s face masks through our partnership with ThreadTech. For every two masks bought through November 30, one will be donated to Cradles to Crayons. There is also an option to have masks donated directly to us! Many local children are in need of comfortable, high-quality masks so they can stay safe.

Thank you so much for helping us provide warm essentials to over 60,000 local children this winter!

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Luke,

"Don''t ever diminish the power of words. Words move hearts and hearts move limbs."

-Hamza Yusuf

During these past five months of our new reality, I''ve seen the power of communication heal and unite, as well as divide and hurt. Daily, I strive to be a source of healing, but know that too often, I'm also responsible for hurt. Finding the right words-knowing what to say and how or when to say it-is even more challenging when we operate under stress, yet it is vital that we try our hardest to do it well. As partners and parents, as leaders and members of teams at work, as neighbors and members of a community-we need to use our words thoughtfully, but not be afraid to speak out.

I'm learning how important it is to reflect and be a better listener at home-it makes for a happier place. (For everyone's sake, I should make a rule to put myself in a mandatory "time out" after I've had my 3rd cup of coffee and have been binge-reading the news.) I can't escape the stress of seeing the ever-escalating number of COVID-19 cases, the unemployment figures, or concerns and fears about what school will look like this fall for our children-and I'm guaranteed to get short with my family or get on my soapbox. Nobody wins.

What if I gave myself permission and space to feel these feelings-for them to wash over me? I may still feel the stress. But, I could identify the source of the feeling and be empowered to decide what to do with it. I could move past it and focus on being a better listener. I could appreciate the weight of my own words.

At work, we've had to make some tough decisions-like temporarily shutting down volunteer shifts and recycled product donations (we've recently reopened both in limited capacity) at the same time that demand for our goods has spiked. I see how hard it is for our staff to be sorting donations in 90 degree heat, trying to do the work of thousands of volunteers. I know that this new reality will be ours for some time to come. I struggle with finding the right words that are empathetic, supportive, appreciative, and inspiring all at the same time.

I have to remember that what''s best is to "speak the truth and face the facts," so that we can all tap into our shared motivation to serve local children-even in challenging times.

We are all part of something bigger than our families or our workplaces. Each of us is feeling a loss of freedom and it hurts. But some of our neighbors are shouldering a much larger burden.

We cannot afford to be silent. Our words are needed for healing, for unifying. A heart-felt thank you to the cashier at the grocery store. A phone call to check in on a senior who is sheltering in place. Full-throated support of #BlackLivesMatter. And telling your elected officials that you support relief bills to provide a robust safety net for our neighbors who are struggling; to invest in our schools; to build the health care infrastructure we require; and to make our communities fully and truly sustainable.

Words are powerful. They matter.

Our words can help paint a picture of a shared, common humanity-where every person is treated with respect and dignity.

Let us find the words that "move hearts and.limbs." Together, we can "leverage our collective genius" and harness our energy to come together to support children and families when they need it most.

#strongertogether

Wishing you health, safety, and courage,

Lynn Margherio, Founder and CEO

.emailview

Dear Luke,

School is going to look different this year. But no matter where learning is taking place, kids will always need supplies to feel empowered, and ready to learn.

Cradles to Crayons? continues to serve families with essential items during the pandemic, but we are also looking ahead to what many families will face in the coming months: an uncertain school year, without a way to pay for back-to-school items such as new backpacks, writing utensils, and properly fitting clothes for growing kids. Please consider the following:

55% of low-wage workers with young children reported someone in the household had been laid off since March 16, 2020.
As more families struggle to afford essentials like food and rent, spending an average of $320 a year on school supplies is unrealistic and unaffordable.

As an extension of our ongoing COVID-19 crisis response efforts, Cradles to Crayons' Ready for Learning initiative will provide more than 50,000 local children living in low-income and homeless situations with the school supplies and other essentials they need to start the 2020-2021 school year fully prepared to learn and grow. This includes backpacks, pencils, paper, books, clothes, hygiene products, and other critical essentials.

It is vitally important for children to feel empowered and confident about the new school year after so many months of uncertainty and upheaval. Whether back-to-school this year means returning to a physical classroom among peers, scheduled virtual lessons, or somewhere in between, students will still need school supplies to complete assignments and need other everyday essentials to feel comfortable and ready to learn in any environment.

Cradles to Crayons is committed to being a steady resource for families. Will you join us as we invest in the future and help level the playing field for children hit hardest by the economic impact of the coronavirus by providing the tangible tools they need to succeed? Just $33 will provide one child with head-to-toe essentials: a backpack with school supplies, seasonal clothing, shoes, hygiene products, books, and more.? We hope you can make a gift today!

Thank you for your continued friendship. During these uncertain and unsettling times, we are so grateful that you continue to stand with us.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Due to Giving Factory constraints, Cradles to Crayons^? has made the decision to temporarily close our donation bins at all offsite drop-off locations. We have been amazed and humbled by the generosity of our community members - reflected in the incredible volume of new and gently used items collected. Donations of clothing and footwear can still be dropped off at our Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue in Newton. Please make sure your donations meet our quality standards and that they are secured neatly in a bag or box. When you arrive with donations, please place them in one of the unlocked Packrat storage containers in the front parking lot. We appreciate your patience and understanding!

How You Can Help Us

Now, we need volunteers! Our volunteers are the heart and soul of our mission and we are thrilled to announce that we have resumed volunteer shifts at our Giving Factory. Safety remains the top priority, and we have modified the Giving Factory experience to ensure social distancing. View some of our safety measures here. Sign up for a shift in our Newton Giving Factory today!

Through our new Giving Factory at Home initiative, community members also have the option of picking up clothing that has been quarantined to sort and size at home! Email communityboston@cradlestocrayons.org to learn more.

We are excited to once again be able to welcome you, your friends, your family, and your coworkers back to our Giving Factory. Come roll up your sleeves and help us to build book packs, create outfit packs, size clothing, and more, to help provide these essential items to local children.

We are so thankful for the continued support from our community. We hope to see you back at the Giving Factory soon!

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Over the past 13 weeks, Cradles to Crayons? has helped thousands of families throughout Massachusetts thanks to friends like you who have supported our Emergency Essentials Fund. Last month, UPS donated the transportation for 350,000 diapers (check out this news clip). Following this delivery, we have now distributed ONE MILLION diapers! This is in addition to the other critical items we have provided, including baby wipes, school supplies, hygiene kits, clothing, books, and toys to more than 45,000 children.

During these challenging times, we continue to work with our service partners to alleviate the unprecedented need for basic essentials. At the Somerville Family Learning Collaborative, a partner shared that when she was making a diaper delivery a mom with three young children answered the door. She looked frazzled and her hands were full, holding a baby and trying to keep her two toddlers from toddling off their front porch. But when the mom saw our Partner was carrying a bag full of diapers, the mom broke out into a huge smile and called her an angel for delivering diapers-and in the needed sizes!

Cradles to Crayons is built on the belief that everyone deserves the everyday essentials they need to thrive at home, at school, and at play. Now more than ever, we remain fully committed to building a world where all kids can access what they need-including fun red wagons and toys that were donated for 300 local families by Radio Flyer. The smile above says it all!

As the income and opportunity gaps unremittingly increase in our community, low-income and homeless families need our help more than ever. If you are in a position to do so, please make a gift today to ensure Cradles to Crayons is a steady resource now and in the coming months. No matter the size of the gift, you make a difference for the families who need us most.

Together we can create a caring, thoughtful, and supportive community for all.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Luke,

In August, The Giving Factory^? is highlighting our need for

Children''s Face Masks

Families across Massachusetts are currently preparing for an unprecedented school year. One thing is for certain: face masks are a newly critical back-to-school essential. In fact, current plans in the Commonwealth will require all students grade 2 and above to wear a facial covering. The Center for Disease Control reports that wearing a facial covering is a proven way to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As Cradles to Crayons^? plans to help prepare over 50,000 children this fall as a part of our Ready for Learning initiative, we hope to include face masks as one of the items distributed to help alleviate stress for the families we serve.

Help us ensure every child is fully prepared to return to school by shopping our Amazon Wish List today!

Face masks can also be donated by bringing them (or shipping them) to The Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue Newton, MA 02460. We require that all donated face masks are new, reusable, have ear loops or ties, and are children''s sizes or adult small.

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. Want to join our #ArmyofEmpathy? Find out what you can do to help here!

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

We've never seen a summer like this-school graduations translated into drive-by parades, access to libraries' summer reading and activity programs postponed or moved online, camps and pools closed or following protocol that makes it all feel a little less like the free spirit that typically comes with summertime.

While we continue to process the fluctuating impacts of COVID-19-and the families who face increasing or new financial hardship-we also know one thing to be very true: Kids are still being kids. Babies are still being born. They're still growing. They're still learning. They're still taking in this world every day through their own development-even if everything is a little different right now.

Over the past few months, Cradles to Crayons? has continued to pivot and focus on our children and families' greatest needs as more children are finding that last year's shorts and shirts are too small, their sneakers are starting to pinch their toes, and the support that often comes from schools and summer programs isn't there to help offset other needs-making access to clothing and diapers more essential than ever. Fold in the loss of jobs and the exponentially increased hardship on already vulnerable Black and Latinx communities, and we see an unprecedented demand that needs urgent solutions.

Clothing has quickly emerged as one of our most needed items across all our locations-Chicagoland, Greater Philadelphia, and Massachusetts-as the pandemic continues and the season changes.

Here are just a few stats to reflect on:

Coming into the pandemic, most Americans had limited resources to weather even a $400 crisis
More than 40 million jobless claims were filed during the pandemic by mid-May
Food insecurity has increased drastically:
- 18 million children are expected to experience food insecurity in 2020
- People of Color are most impacted by the pandemic and rising food insecurity-in some of our service communities, 1 in 2 Black and Latinx Americans are experiencing food insecurity already
Diaper need increased 300% across the United States and in May we distributed more than 1 million diapers-compared to 90,000 last May, an increase of 1,243%. As of this week, we've distributed a total of 2.5 million across our network.

It is absolutely imperative that right now we all prioritize leading with empathy and come together as one community to get through this and on to real and sustainable change. We may not see the long-term outcomes of our work now-but our children will, and we need to always put them first.

For now, Cradles to Crayons has started our gradual "reopening." We're accepting new and gently used donations in limited locations. Our staff is back in The Giving Factories sorting, quality checking, and delivering KidPack orders. Soon we'll be sharing our safety plan for welcoming volunteers back!

We're looking ahead to what "school" is going to look like in the fall-and how to prepare our young learners for success, no matter what their classroom ends up being. Our Ready for Learning program will ensure that 125,000 children across our Organization can focus on their lessons with the tools and supplies they need.

We are also in the process of developing an innovative new way to give back-a digital model that allows you to ship your high-quality children's clothing directly to individual children, from the safety and convenience of your own home! We have piloted this model in Chicago and Boston with incredibly positive results. We will keep you updated on this ground-breaking initiative as it develops.

Through these difficult times, I find hope and inspiration from the energy and example of those who put the needs of the community first. From our front-line health and safety workers, to Black Lives Matter marchers, to the Cradles to Crayons Champions who have sorted and packed socks and underwear in their homes for months-this energy is palpable, and it will move us forward.

From all of us at Cradles to Crayons, thank you for all that you do to support our mission and your community. We wish you a safe, healthy, and happy Independence Day!

Best,

Lynn Margherio, Founder and CEO

P.S.: I had the pleasure of sharing our work and my story with Authority Magazine-you can check it out here!

.emailview

Dear Luke,

Over the past 13 weeks, Cradles to Crayons? has helped thousands of families throughout Massachusetts thanks to friends like you who have supported our Emergency Essentials Fund. Last month, UPS donated the transportation for 350,000 diapers (check out this news clip). Following this delivery, we have now distributed ONE MILLION diapers! This is in addition to the other critical items we have provided, including baby wipes, school supplies, hygiene kits, clothing, books, and toys to more than 45,000 children.

During these challenging times, we continue to work with our service partners to alleviate the unprecedented need for basic essentials. At the Somerville Family Learning Collaborative, a partner shared that when she was making a diaper delivery a mom with three young children answered the door. She looked frazzled and her hands were full, holding a baby and trying to keep her two toddlers from toddling off their front porch. But when the mom saw our Partner was carrying a bag full of diapers, the mom broke out into a huge smile and called her an angel for delivering diapers-and in the needed sizes!

Cradles to Crayons is built on the belief that everyone deserves the everyday essentials they need to thrive at home, at school, and at play. Now more than ever, we remain fully committed to building a world where all kids can access what they need-including fun red wagons and toys that were donated for 300 local families by Radio Flyer. The smile above says it all!

As the income and opportunity gaps unremittingly increase in our community, low-income and homeless families need our help more than ever. If you are in a position to do so, please make a gift today to ensure Cradles to Crayons is a steady resource now and in the coming months. No matter the size of the gift, you make a difference for the families who need us most.

Together we can create a caring, thoughtful, and supportive community for all.

Warmly,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

It only takes $33 for us to dress a child from head to toe. Now, more than ever, it is important to know that you can make a real difference in a child's life.

You can make a tax-deductible donation to Cradles to Crayons^? right now, and have a direct impact on how a local child in need navigates the next few months. By doing so, we'll be able to provide him or her with the essential items needed to thrive at home, at school, and at play.

Thank you so much for your support.

With appreciation,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

P.S. If you have already made a donation to our organization this holiday season, we are so grateful! ??

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

It's not over yet. Indeed, 2020 is coming to a close, but as we pause to recognize the pain, hardship, and loss that this year has brought-especially for our most vulnerable neighbors-we know there is more work to rally around. And we know you are ready to bring on 2021!

Thank you for all the extra support you have given Cradles to Crayons? this year to help us shift gears in March-raising more than $1.7M for our Emergency Essentials Fund-to meet the sudden and elevated demands for diapers, hygiene products, and other urgently needed children's essentials. We couldn't have supported more than 540,000 kids in Chicagoland, Greater Philadelphia, Massachusetts, and New York City without your unwavering commitment to our mission and your communities.

This year we have learned to redefine "health, happiness, and togetherness"-typical New Year's wishes-by shifting our collective focus towards the needs of humanity's health, happiness, and togetherness. We have clung tightly to our values to guide us through unknowns, celebrated our resilience, and recognized the work required to create a more equitable and just society. Your compassion extended well past your support for children facing Clothing Insecurity while you checked in on others' mental health, stood up for democracy, and found ways to support frontline workers and others in need around you.

2020's definitive incantation: We are one, and we are stronger together.

Thank you for everything you do for children, for families, for the greater good of the world we live in-you are making a tremendous difference.

As we say goodbye to 2020 and ring in 2021, I stand with all of you in peace and kindness-graciously, humbly, and hopeful. May 2021 be the year of healing that we all need.

Warmly,

Lynn Margherio
Cradles to Crayons, Founder and CEO

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

Each of us has the power to make a difference in our community. Please consider making a gift to Cradles to Crayons^? by the end of today to help send a message of hope to a child or family in need as we enter the New Year.

Thank you for your ongoing support. Your financial gifts, product donations, and volunteer hours mean so much to the families we serve.

With appreciation,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

P.S. If you have already made a donation to our organization this holiday season, we are so grateful! ?

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

As 2020 comes to an end, we''d love for you to join us in looking back at the amazing impact Cradles to Crayons? made this year thanks to supporters like you. Our Army of Empathy stepped up to help us meet an unprecedented need as we distributed more than 2 million diapers and over 30,000 face masks, stuffed 50,000 backpacks with school supplies, and impacted more than 200,000 children-all crucial parts of our effort to address Clothing Insecurity.

On behalf of the entire Cradles to Crayons team and the families we serve, we share our heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support. Without each and every one of you, our work would not be possible.

Warmest wishes for peaceful, joyous, and safe holidays!

With deep appreciation,

Aubrey Conquergood
Executive Director

.emailview

Dear Luke,

In January, The Giving Factory^? is highlighting our need for

Winter Footwear

Appropriate winter footwear is essential for every child in New England but can be one of our most challenging requests to fill. So far this winter, we received 5,000 requests for appropriate winter footwear. Help us ensure that every child we serve has the footwear they need to walk to school, build a snowman, and just be a kid, by shopping our Amazon Wish List today!

Do you have extra shoes at home? We accept both new and gently-used sneakers and winter boots in sizes from toddler 5 through adult 11. Consider donating your extra winter footwear to our Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue, Newton, MA.

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. We are still collecting face masks! New and homemade masks can either be shipped to or dropped off directly at The Giving Factory.

.emailview

Dear Isaac,

In January, The Giving Factory^? is highlighting our need for

Winter Footwear

Appropriate winter footwear is essential for every child in New England but can be one of our most challenging requests to fill. So far this winter, we received 5,000 requests for appropriate winter footwear. Help us ensure that every child we serve has the footwear they need to walk to school, build a snowman, and just be a kid, by shopping our Amazon Wish List today!

Do you have extra shoes at home? We accept both new and gently-used sneakers and winter boots in sizes from toddler 5 through adult 11. Consider donating your extra winter footwear to our Giving Factory at 281 Newtonville Avenue, Newton, MA.

With gratitude,

Marguerite Dowd
Director of Operations

P.S. We are still collecting face masks! New and homemade masks can either be shipped to or dropped off directly at The Giving Factory.

.emailview

Data Name	Data Type	Options
I dropped off at...	Text Box
First name	Text Box
Last name	Text Box
Title	Text Box
Email	Text Box
Phone (home)	Text Box
Phone (mobile)	Text Box
Home address	Text Box
City	Text Box
State	Text Box
Postcode	Text Box
I dropped off at...	dropdown	Please select...
My donation of goods was part of a drive.	checklist	Please select... The Brighton Giving Factory Another Drop-Off Location
Preferred Email	dropdown	Please select...
Preferred Phone	dropdown	Please select...
Address Type	dropdown	Please select...
State	dropdown	Please select...
Yes	option	Are you over 18 years old?
No	option	Yes
How did you hear about us?	dropdown	Please select...

Start Searching Today!

Cradles to Crayons Sign Up Information

Email Address

Your Name

Your Address

Phone Number

Post-Registration Data

Validation

Membership Emails

Comments about cradlestocrayons

Recently added URLs

Top 10 Search URLs

Top 10 Categories