More than 1,000 children in foster care across Hillsborough County, including families in Apollo Beach and Ruskin, now have access to a growing supply of bags meant to replace the trash bags many kids are handed when they're removed from a home. Tampa International Airport delivered 238 unclaimed suitcases, backpacks and duffel bags to Hillsborough County Children's Services on Tuesday, Aug. 4, as part of the county's Duffels of Dignity Program.

The donation doubled last year's contribution of 119 bags and marked the second consecutive year TPA has partnered with the program. What started as a one-time gift in 2025 has become an annual commitment, according to Fox 13.

"For children entering foster care, a duffel bag may seem like a small thing, but it can make a tremendous difference," Shannon Boos, TPA's senior manager of guest experience, said in the airport's announcement. "It gives them a safe, dignified way to carry their personal belongings during what is often one of the most difficult times in their lives."

Craig Jewesak, administrative services coordinator for Hillsborough County Children's Services, told Fox 13 that being handed a garbage bag "sets a tone for them that they don't have a worth."

The donated bags send a different message.

TPA's Lost and Found Department holds unclaimed luggage for up to 30 days while staff search for owner information. Items nobody claims go to local charities rather than a landfill. Since launching in October 2022, the Duffels of Dignity Program has collected more than 2,000 bags through individual donations and partnerships with organizations including Mary & Martha House and The Spring of Tampa Bay, both of which serve women and children fleeing domestic violence.

How Apollo Beach and Ruskin residents can help

The program accepts donations year-round. Residents can drop off new or gently used duffel bags (24–28 inches), suitcases or backpacks, along with personal care items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, shampoo and deodorant (new and in original packaging) at the Hillsborough County Children's Services Administrative Office, 3191 Clay Mangum Lane, Tampa, FL 33618. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

An Amazon Wish List is also available for those who prefer to order items shipped directly to the Children's Services campus. For partnership inquiries, contact Craig Jewesak at (813) 455-2701.