HLI Class 44 launches kindness campaign collecting suitcases and essential items for local children
A new community-centered initiative is shining a light on a critical need facing children entering foster care. Huntsville Leadership Institute Class 44 has launched Suitcases of Sunshine, a kindness campaign designed to support the local Child Protective Services office by providing children with essential items during a time of transition.
Many children entering the CPS system arrive with very few personal belongings and, in some cases, without basic necessities. Suitcases of Sunshine seeks to change that experience by ensuring children receive essential items packed in a suitcase of their own, offering dignity, comfort, and reassurance during an uncertain moment.
The campaign is sponsored by HLI Class 44, with Jason Brandolini serving as class president and Brenda Poe coordinating the project. Together, the class is working to collect practical, high-impact items that can be immediately used to meet children’s needs.
Items needed include carry-on–size suitcases made of cloth or hard plastic, along with full-size hygiene products such as shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes, lotion, baby lotion, brushes and combs, and feminine products. Diapers in sizes 2 through 6 and lice treatment kits are also requested.
To make participation simple, donors are encouraged to purchase items through the campaign’s Amazon wish list. Items purchased through the list will be shipped directly to the Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce for collection and distribution.
Beyond meeting physical needs, Suitcases of Sunshine carries a deeper purpose — reminding children that they are seen, cared for, and supported by their community during a difficult transition. Each donated item represents a small but meaningful act of kindness.
Community members, businesses, and organizations interested in supporting the campaign or learning more may contact Brenda Poe at brenda771804@gmail.com or Jason Brandolini at jason@huntsvillewalkerchamber.com.
The Amazon wish list is available at:
https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/2LCIMGEBC2F3M?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_ggr-subnav-share_BFZGJ4QZJ7WNMNT8Y3J1
