Pinellas County Community Rallies to Provide Backpacks for Foster Children

Intuition Salon & Spa, led by owner Dawn Shannon, has announced a community initiative to collect backpacks and essential supplies for foster children across Pinellas County. In partnership with local businesses and community members, Intuition Salon & Spa is spearheading this effort to support the Pinellas County Foster & Adoptive Parents Association (PCFAPA). The campaign seeks to collect backpacks, school supplies, and other essential items to support the growing number of children in the foster care system. Donations are being accepted at Intuition Salon & Spa located at 850 Clearwater Largo Rd S, Largo, as well as at partner businesses throughout Pinellas County during business hours.

"These children deserve the dignity of carrying their belongings in something other than a trash bag," says Dawn Shannon. "Every backpack represents hope and a fresh start for a child in transition." Across Florida, approximately 19,000 children are in foster care at any given time. When children are moved from one home to another—sometimes unexpectedly—they often have little time to pack and end up carrying their personal belongings in plastic bags or other makeshift containers. This reality inspired community leaders to take action. The Pinellas County Foster & Adoptive Parents Association works tirelessly to provide quality training, support services, and meaningful activities for foster and adoptive families. By equipping children with proper backpacks and supplies, the organization can help ease the emotional and practical challenges that come with placement transitions.

Community members and businesses can donate new or gently used backpacks filled with school supplies or basic necessities. Suggested items include backpacks of all sizes, especially teen sizes, notebooks and writing paper, pens, pencils, and markers, school supplies, socks and undergarments as new items only, toiletries and hygiene products, and comfort items like journals or art supplies. Donations can be dropped off at participating locations throughout Pinellas County. For information about drop-off times and locations, contact the Pinellas County Foster & Adoptive Parents Association directly. Whether through donations or volunteering, the community is encouraged to participate in this meaningful initiative. Every backpack filled makes a tangible difference in a child's life and demonstrates that Pinellas County cares about its most vulnerable young people.

To drop off donations at Intuition Salon & Spa, visit 850 Clearwater Largo Rd S, Largo during business hours. To learn more or to inquire about becoming a donation partner, contact Intuition Salon & Spa or reach out to local community organizations and participating businesses. The initiative highlights the critical need for community support in addressing the challenges faced by foster children, emphasizing that such efforts provide not only practical assistance but also a sense of dignity and hope during difficult transitions. This collective action underscores the importance of local engagement in supporting vulnerable populations and fostering a more compassionate community environment.