The Young Caring for Our Young Foundation announced that their KIND Fund program has officially provided over 10,000 children with new clothing.
A milestone for the nonprofit, the accomplishment is recognized as the culmination of almost half a decade of work. Founded in 2022, the KIND Fund was created to provide children facing poverty with $150 of apparel. Today, it’s become a resource for school districts across Utah, Idaho and Montana, as well as Hill Air Force Base’s Airman’s Attic.
“The power in this statistic is not in the number, but in the stories that these donations have created,” said Kellee Belnap, director of the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation. “Quality clothing does more than keep a child warm. These items can foster dignity, and provide a child with heightened confidence. We’re grateful to everyone who’s engaged with the program, and understood the need this program fills.”
Since its inception, the KIND Fund has relied on donors and volunteers to operate as well as representatives from primarily Title I schools. Each request is submitted through the foundation’s app by an educator who notices a child in need. A form is then processed by the nonprofit, and a request — as well as a gift card with $150 — is given to a volunteer. That individual then shops for the items, and brings them back to the school, where the educator can give them to the child.
Volunteers can engage with the KIND Fund by downloading its app. Several prominent figures have shopped for the program, including first lady Abby Cox, Chicago Bears cornerback Clark Phillips III and the spouses of Utah’s legislators. Companies such as AAA, America First Credit Union, Center Point Construction, DL Evans Bank, First Community Bank and KSL have all partnered with the KIND Fund as well.
“The KIND Fund empowers people who desire to make an impact in their community,” said Belnap. “Making a donation and volunteering to shop is done straight from our app. Our volunteers are able to do everything on their own terms, which is why we consider them part of our army for good.”
A 501 (c)(3) non-profit, the Young Automotive Group established Young Caring for Our Young in 2007. An organization dedicated to aiding families and children facing poverty, the foundation has provided communities with almost $10 million in resources. In addition to providing children in need with clothing through the KIND Fund, they focus efforts on fighting hunger, promoting education and improving family wellness.