Shining a Light on National Foster Care Month: The Bravely Me Boutique
As May unfolds there’s a special spotlight we want to cast on an often overlooked occasion: National Foster Care Month. It's a time to raise awareness about the needs of the thousands of children and young people in foster care, and this year, we're determined to make a difference by shedding light on foster care resources and initiatives, including the Bravely Me Boutique presented by Foster the Need.
Located at 3113 W. Boulevard inside Maple Grove Community Church in Kokomo, the Bravely Me Boutique stands as Howard County’s first foster closet. Organizers say it’s more than just a physical space; it’s a haven for foster and kinship families.
Laura Martin, executive director of Foster the Need, and Shane Martin, finance director, said children who enter the foster care system often arrive to their new placement families with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
“We believe that all children need to know that they deserve dignity, comfort, and love,” said Laura Martin. “It is our vision that these children will have a memorable shopping experience which caters to each child’s individual style preferences. We want to encourage every child to feel confident and cared for. We never want them to feel second best!”
During our visit to the Bravely Me Boutique, we were struck by the attention to detail and the abundance of brand-new items lining the shelves. From clothing and toys to shoes and accessories, every corner was filled with items, that looked nothing shy of a high-end retail store. The Martins attributed this to the generosity of local churches, schools, businesses, and individuals, highlighting the power of the community.
Martin said the boutique operates on a simple yet impactful principle: to empower children to make their own choices and express their individuality.
Foster and kinship families can schedule appointments to shop, where they’re greeted with personalized attention and a curated selection of items tailored to their needs. Evening appointments are available for families with children old enough to participate, ensuring that every child feels valued and respected.
But the Bravely Me Boutique isn't just a place to pick out new clothes; it's an experience—a moment of joy and empowerment for children and teens alike. Martin said she wants to create a welcoming environment where all “shoppers” leave feeling confident and excited about their newfound treasures.
So, how can you lend your support to the cause? Community involvement. Businesses and individuals are encouraged to explore sponsorship opportunities, donate new merchandise, or volunteer their time to keep the boutique running smoothly. And for those eager to spread the word, following the Foster the Need on Facebook is a simple yet impactful way to stay updated on upcoming events and initiatives.
Whether you’re a foster parent seeking assistance or a compassionate individual looking to make a difference, the doors of the Bravely Me Boutique are open wide, ready to welcome you with open arms. Reach out via email or Facebook to learn more about how you can play a part in creating brighter tomorrows for children in foster care.
While Bravely Me Boutique is assisting families now, they invite you to come out to their grand opening open house event happening from 3-5 p.m. on May 30. Join them for refreshments, a tour of the facility and celebrate Howard County’s first brand new boutique for children in foster and kinship care.
Email: fostertheneed@gmail.com
Facebook: Bravely Me Boutique
