Suitcases for New Beginnings: Local charity helps area children

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

A Branson area nonprofit fills a unique need in our area.

Cheryl Adair formed Suitcases for New Beginnings in 2021. Suitcases for New Beginnings serves the children and youth who are in foster care, by providing them with a duffle bag in which to carry their belongings. There are approximately 440,000 foster children nationwide, and more than 13,000 children in foster care in Missouri alone. Many children enter foster care with very few belongings to call their own, and nothing but a plastic bag in which to carry those items.

“I always wanted to do something to help foster children,” explained Adair. “I knew I couldn’t become a foster parent. One night I watched a movie and it gave me the idea of starting this charity.”

Adair not only provides a duffle bag for each child, but also fills it with necessities.

“Children receive a new duffle bag, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, body wash, a toy plush animal, blanket and a book about foster care,” Adair noted. “Older kids have deodorant, hair brush and a journal. I also have diaper bags I donate.

The recipients are excited about the duffle bags and the things inside. Some children have never had anything new or their own toothbrush. It’s very heartwarming.”

Adair has given away approximately 400 duffle bags full of items to date. The cost of the duffle or diaper bags, combined with the items inside averages between $30 and $50 each.

Adair began the charity on her own, but it has become a family project. Said Adair, “My oldest son and his wife help with the events. My middle son makes the posters and banners, and my youngest son built the website and takes care of it.”

Adair, who serves as a foster care advocate and is training to be a CASA volunteer, is hoping to one day devote all of her time to Suitcases for New Beginnings.

“I wish I could just work on this charity full time, so I could help more children,” Adair noted. “God willing, it will happen someday.”

Adair currently is employed by The Cosmetics Company, located in Branson’s Tanger Mall, a position that helps her provide funds to continue her passion to help children. Like most nonprofit organizations, however, Adair could use some financial assistance.

“I need monthly donors more than anything and office space,” explained Adair. “Right now, I have everything in the basement of my house.”

Regarding donations of duffle bags, diaper bags and items to fill those bags, Adair added, “I appreciate all donations, but I would like all new items that are donated, please.”

For those wishing to donate to Adair’s charity, or to find out more about Suitcases for New Beginnings, visit her website, www.suitcasesfornewbeginnings.org. You can also reach Adair by email at chery@suitcasesfornewbeginnings.org, reach out to her on social media or contact her by phone or text at 417-337-0372.