Pinellas County Businesses Launch Backpack Drive to Support 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.

"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, markers, school supplies, socks and undergarments (new items only), toiletries and hygiene products, and comfort items like journals or art supplies.

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. 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.

PCFAPA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families and improving the lives of children in the foster care and adoptive system. Through training programs, support groups, recreational activities, and community partnerships, PCFAPA helps ensure that every foster and adoptive child has the resources and support they need to thrive. For more information about PCFAPA and how you can support their mission, visit their website at https://www.pcfapa.org or contact them directly. Intuition Salon & Spa is committed to serving the Pinellas County community and supporting causes that make a real difference in people's lives. With locations in Clearwater and St. Petersburg, Intuition Salon & Spa is honored to lead this initiative to help foster children in transition.