Frequently Asked Questions

How Can We Help?

Whether you're a foster parent looking for support, someone interested in donating, or an organization exploring ways to get involved, we're here to help.

Find answers to common questions about our services, donations, and community partnerships below. If you don't see what you're looking for, please contact us.

General Information

  • Fosters Closet is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children ages 0–18 entering foster care. We provide essential items, clothing, baby supplies, and comfort items at no cost to help children and caregivers during times of transition.

  • We support children entering foster care and eligible foster, kinship, and relative caregivers, as well as authorized professionals assisting with placements.

  • We serve San Diego County and surrounding communities. Please contact us to confirm whether your location is within our service area.

Requesting Assistance

  • Licensed foster parents, kinship and relative caregivers, and authorized social workers or child welfare professionals may submit a request for eligible children in their care.

  • No. Items and resources provided through Fosters Closet are offered at no cost, subject to availability.

  • Visit our Request Assistance page and complete the request form. Our team will review your submission and contact you regarding available items and next steps.

  • We may request a Placement Letter, Foster Care Authorization, or other appropriate documentation to verify eligibility.

  • Depending on availability, we may provide clothing, shoes, diapers, wipes, bassinets, car seats, baby gear, beds, bedding, hygiene products, school supplies, toys, and other essential items.

  • Processing times depend on the items requested, inventory, and current demand. Our team will contact you after reviewing your request.

  • Pickup arrangements are coordinated with approved requests. Please contact us to discuss available arrangements and whether pickup or delivery options may be possible.

Donations

  • We welcome new and gently used items in clean, safe, and good condition, including:

    • Clothing and shoes for children ages 0–18.

    • Diapers and wipes.

    • Baby essentials and bassinets.

    • Car seats and baby gear that meet our safety guidelines.

    • Toys, books, and comfort items.

    • Hygiene and personal care products.

    • School supplies.

    • Beds, bedding, and other essential items.

  • Yes. We accept gently used clothing and shoes that are clean, in good condition, and suitable for children.

  • Yes, provided the car seat meets our safety requirements. We accept car seats only if they have at least two years remaining before expiration, have no known crash history, and meet applicable safety guidelines.

  • Please visit our Donate page for accepted items and donation instructions. You may contact us before dropping off larger donations to coordinate arrangements.

  • Yes, depending on the item's condition, safety, and current storage capacity. Please send us a photo and description before arranging a drop-off or pickup.

  • Yes. Financial contributions help Fosters Closet purchase essential supplies, prepare placement kits, and respond to the needs of children and caregivers.

  • Yes. Donation acknowledgments are available upon request. Please provide your contact information and details of your contribution.

Volunteering & Community Partnerships

  • You can help sort and organize donations, prepare placement kits, support donation drives, assist with events, and contribute to other organizational activities. Visit our Volunteer page or contact us to express your interest.

  • Absolutely! We welcome partnerships with local businesses, schools, community groups, and individuals who share our commitment to supporting children in foster care.

  • Complete the Partnership Inquiry Form on our Community Partners page. Our team will review your submission and contact you to discuss potential opportunities.

  • Yes! We welcome community-led donation drives and collection bin initiatives. Please submit a partnership inquiry so we can discuss the details and coordinate with your organization.

Still Have Questions?

We'd love to hear from you. If you need additional information about our services, donations, or partnership opportunities, please reach out. Together, we can help children feel safe, supported, and cared for.