K.I.D.S. Responds to Ever Greater Daily Disasters in 2011

Now More Than Ever

Earthquakes, Floods, Tsunamis, Tornadoes and Hurricanes - as soon as we hear these terms, we are stricken with fear and panic. Here at K.I.D.S. we instantly foresee the strife, pain and loss that impacted communities and families will endure.

K.I.D.S. responded to more natural disasters in 2011 than in any other year. Last year, there were 69 declared disasters in the United States with pleas for help coming from our local community based partner agencies around the country.

First, we helped the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. K.I.D.S. sent over $3 million worth of essentials, such as vitamins, blankets, water, undergarments, apparel, pajamas and baby items, with most of the donations coming from Carter’s, Inc. Both K.I.D.S. and the people of Japan owe a great expression of gratitude to the leadership of this wonderful company for its spontaneous and overwhelming support during such a severe time of crisis.

Turning its attention to helping families affected by the devastating tornadoes in the South and Midwest of the United States, K.I.D.S. donated approximately $800,000 worth of new products to those areas. Working with partner agencies in the hardest hit communities of Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina and Joplin, Missouri, immediate relief was provided to ensure as quick a recovery of these families as possible.

In Joplin alone, K.I.D.S. provided $182,000 worth of school supplies, $10,000 worth of underwear, quilts to cover the children, and apparel and socks to get them back on their feet.

And, in the beginning of September, K.I.D.S. geared up its relief efforts along the East Coast, as far north as Vermont and as far south as the Carolinas, to help the victims of Hurricane Irene.

While K.I.D.S. distributes new merchandise year round to help children and families living in poverty, it draws heavily on the generosity and concern of retailers, manufacturers, and licensees whenever a major disaster occurs. We thank all of those who participate in our attempt to help destroyed communities overcome damage and despair.