Getting to know Foster Care Essentials
Sharon Bryant is the CEO and Co-Founder of Foster Care Essentials, a nonprofit that provides essential items to families who open their homes to children in foster care. Over the past few months, I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Sharon, and she has taught me so much about reaching the right audiences to ensure that the students who need our services actually hear about us. Thanks to her, TriTogether has been connected with countless organizations that have already helped spread the word about our work.
I often turn to Sharon for advice; she always offers thoughtful insights and practical guidance. This time, I decided to ask her a few questions about what she does and why—so that I could share a bit of her story with you.
Here are some of her inspiring responses. I hope you’ll take a moment to read them, visit the Foster Care Essentials website, and consider donating to help meet their seasonal needs.
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What inspired you to get involved in the foster care community?
I’ve been connected to the foster care community my whole life. I grew up in foster care, entering care at age 7 for 6 months and returning at age 9 until aging out at 18. From early on, I knew I wanted to give back.
What items are most needed?
Our greatest needs shift throughout the year. In late summer, school supplies are our top priority, while in the winter months, warm clothing—jackets, boots, hats, mittens/gloves, and scarves—is most in demand. Year-round, hygiene products are always a critical need.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work?
For me, it’s the joy on a child’s face when they get to choose clothing or shoes that make them feel good. That moment of choice gives them a sense of identity, comfort, and belonging—something that can mean so much when so much of their world has been outside of their control. It’s also deeply rewarding to know that by providing these essentials, we’re helping foster and kinship families remain stable, easing some of the financial strain that comes with caring for children.
Let Sharon’s story be a reminder of how powerful it can be to give back to the community in a way that’s meaningful to you. Thank you, Sharon, for sharing your mission with us—we’re grateful for your partnership and excited to continue working together!