How K.I.D.S. Works

K.I.D.S.efficiently distributes new high quality merchandise for children, youth and adults to more than 1,000 grassroots non-profit agencies. K.I.D.S. donates new product because studies show that new items combat the psychological effects, discrimination, and barriers underprivileged children face when given used or poor-quality merchandise. New items promote dignity and self-esteem in young children, as they often compare themselves to their peers.

K.I.D.S. solicits specific items requested by our agency partners from year-round donors -- manufacturers, retailers, and licensors -- with whom it has long-standing relationships.  After products are solicited and secured, they are shipped in intervals directly from the location of storage to the recipient agency at no cost to the recipient. One hundred percent of all product donated goes directly to needy children through a broad range of programs and services without jurisdictional or regulatory red tape, as K.I.D.S. responds to direct requests from the local agencies or first-responders to disasters. Tens of thousands of volunteers each year facilitate the sorting and distribution of product in local communities.

About 85 percent of donations are distributed in the U.S. and about 15 percent overseas.  In this country, K.I.D.S. serves African Americans (59%), Anglo Americans (22%), Hispanics (17%), Native Americans and Asians (1% each). Internationally, World Vision distributes clothing, shoes, books and toys from K.I.D.S. chiefly to children in Africa, South and Central America and Asia.

Click here for more about our agencies.