We’re Making a Difference in Children’s Lives
Cradles to Crayons was founded on the philosophy that unused resources should be redistributed to the places they are needed most. Families struggling to pay for rent and groceries often cannot afford anything else. Basic items for their children—properly fitting outfits for school, diapers, a backpack, shoes, pajamas, a coat for cold weather—are simply not possible.
Cradles to Crayons’ mission and model enable our volunteers and donors to turn compassion into action and provide the essential items children need to thrive at school, participate fully in life, and simply be a kid.
Find A Local Drop Off
We have more than 15 drop-off locations located across Greater Philadelphia, ready to accept your new and gently used clothing and shoe donations.
For more than two decades, you’ve helped build a community-powered model that makes high-quality clothing accessible for kids who need it most, with dignity at its core. Now, we’re sharing what comes next. Cradles to Crayons has officially launched our Strategic Plan, Every Child Deserves to Thrive: Closing the Clothing Gap by 2031 — and we want you to be part of it.
With 800,000+ volunteers and partners behind us, our five-year plan will double our impact.
Starting school with items like a brand-new backpack, art supplies, writing tools, and back-to-school clothing and shoes is imperative for children to feel mentally, emotionally, and physically prepared for school. Ready for Learning, Cradles to Crayons’ flagship summer initiative, ensures that Greater Philadelphia children have what they need to feel confident and prepared going into the school year—and there are plenty of ways you can help!
Current Programs and Events
The BIG Give
September 8 – September 26
The BIG Give is our annual multi-county clothing collection that benefits low-income and homeless children across Greater Philadelphia. Find a collection site near you anytime from September 8 – September 26, or collect all month long and donate all at once on September 26 from 10am – 1pm at our Giving Factory!
National Diaper Need Awareness Week
National Diaper Need Awareness Week (September 14–20) is a nationwide campaign that brings together diaper banks, advocates, community leaders, and elected officials to raise awareness about diaper need and inspire action. Learn how Cradles to Crayons is working to end diaper need and find out how you can help.
Every Child Deserves Clothing That Fits, Feels Good, and Makes Them Feel Ready for Life.
Learn about the reality of Clothing Insecurity and the life-changing difference proper clothing can make for children and families.
Watch Material Impact, a 16-minute documentary that brings this hidden challenge to life through the stories of families, volunteers, and communities working together to ensure every child has what they need to thrive.
Service Partners
Our whole focus is to make our collaborative process as easy and streamlined as possible. This helps us to empower the children you serve at home, at school, and at play by providing the everyday essentials that match their individual needs.
In the News
We host special events and activities throughout the year in our Giving Factory and in local communities to enable community groups, families, and businesses to support our mission and help neighbors in need.
OUR SUPPORTERS
