TIGARD, Ore. (KPTV) – With Love Oregon, a nonprofit focused on supporting foster parents and children, is collaborating with InRoads Credit Union to create haircare kits for kids in foster care.
The standard kit includes essential items like shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries. Additionally, a special kit is designed for children with curly or textured hair. “We’ve included a pick, deep conditioner, shampoo, and a bonnet for nighttime,” said Venissa Gerberg, executive director of With Love Oregon.
On Tuesday afternoon, nearly 150 kits were delivered to With Love Oregon. Gerberg emphasized the importance of recognizing and honoring a child’s culture and hair. “We want foster families to understand the significance of culture and help children feel proud of their hair,” she said.
These kits have been in high demand, inspired by a board member of With Love Oregon who is a person of color. Gerberg shared, “She often encountered families in stores caring for children of color. They would ask, ‘Can you help me understand how to care for their hair?’ She saw a gap we could help fill.”
With Love Oregon aims to support foster families in providing safe and nurturing environments for the children they care for. For Gerberg, this mission is personal. “I am an adoptee and was a foster parent for 14 years,” she said. “I recognize the immense ‘Yes’ that foster families are saying. I want to provide as much support and relief as we can.”
In September alone, With Love Oregon assisted 151 children. Thanks to partners like InRoads Credit Union, Gerberg assured that every child who requests a hair kit, including the curl kit, will receive one.
“We are experiencing a record number of families asking for support, so we need community help,” Gerberg said.
With Love Oregon provides essential supplies for foster families, including mattresses, clothing, diapers, and comfort items like stuffed animals, books, and toys. Gerberg encourages new and gently used donations. For more information on how to get involved, visit With Love Oregon’s website.
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