Talia’s Totes

07/27/2026

What a boatload of emotions today.

Many of you know my story and why Talia’s Totes was created.

As a child, I walked through this door of this Department of Children’s Services office after being removed from my home because of neglect and drug abuse.

Today, I walked through those same doors again.

The drive there felt normal until I was one stoplight away. Then it all hit me at once the sadness, the anxiety, and the grief for the childhood I lost.

But this time, I wasn’t walking in because I needed help I was walking in to help.

Today, I had the honor of delivering 10 Talia’s Totes—5 for boys and 5 for girls. To children who are beginning a journey I know all too well.

As I walked back out those doors, I realized something had changed. Instead of carrying the weight of that building with me, I left feeling lighter. There was a sense of peace in knowing that something so painful in my past has become the reason I can show up for children today.

Thank you to every person who has donated, shared our mission, or encouraged us along the way. These bags are more than tote bags—they’re a tangible reminder that even in life’s hardest moments, someone cares. 💙

07/23/2026

07/21/2026

It’s not every day that we get to make a tote for a newborn. Most Tote bags we have made are for older ages, so we definitely enjoyed making it and delivering it! ❤️👜

We also packed several totes for the Maury County Department of Children’s Services and will be delivering them on Monday! Every tote is a reminder that children in foster care are seen, valued, and loved.

Want to be part of making a difference? We’d love to have you! Whether you donate supplies, sponsor a tote, or simply help spread the word, every act of kindness makes an impact.

✅Send us a message to learn how you can get involved and help us bring comfort to children in foster care.

11/04/2025

☀️ Good Morning, Friends!

We’ve updated our Talia’s Totes Needs Wishlist! 💜
If you’d like to help us fill totes for children, you can shop directly from our Amazon Wishlist below ⬇️

🛒 https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3JGEZSQG40B2D?ref_=wl_share&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR7LUFpBpQLOEE7pI4Qr0MVuHw3BKDsLLIyIf_An1kLNFe2QL3e2Pxb9D3TC6w_aem_FnGOZvSnoAX91qAes298lA

Donations don’t have to come from Amazon — we gladly accept items from anywhere! Every item helps bring comfort and smiles to kids in need. 💫

Here are a few ideas if you’d like to donate:
🎁 Small toys
🎨 Play-Doh, crayons, or colorful pens
🏈 Footballs or fidgets
🧤 Gloves, scarves, or fun cozy socks

Thank you for helping us make a difference, one tote at a time! 💖

11/03/2025

💛 We’re Back and Ready to Spread Kindness Again!

The last few months have been full of change and challenges, and we had to take a little pause — but we’re so happy to share that we’re back at it and ready to make a difference again!

We’ve been busy putting together comfort totes for children and teens (ages 1–18) who are facing tough times — including those in foster care.

Each tote is thoughtfully filled with therapeutic and comforting items like coloring books, crayons, fidgets, cozy blankets, cups, journals, and so much more — all meant to bring a little joy, comfort, and stability during uncertain moments.

As we start this next round, we’re reaching out to our amazing community for help. 💕

If you’d like to support our mission, we’re currently in need of donations to continue filling these totes with love and care. Every item and every bit of support makes a difference!

Thank you all for being part of something that brings light and hope to children who truly need it. 🌟

11/03/2025

Hi 👋 I'm Talia, and I'd like to introduce myself so you can gain a deeper understanding of the name 'Talia's Totes.'

To be honest, I have rewritten this post multiple times, trying to summarize a large portion of my childhood that I tucked away because I did not know what to make of it.

I was a foster child, having entered custody twice, with neither experience being easy. The primary difference between the two instances was that the second time, I was more familiar with the process, which is unfortunate, as no child should have to be acquainted with the workings of DCS. During my childhood, dozens of referrals were made, including one that I made anonymously. Prior to entering foster care, I lacked a support system, with very few instances where I had someone to confide in or rely on during challenging times. However, entering foster care did not alleviate this issue; instead, things became even more difficult. I struggled with social interactions with peers and friends due to frequent school changes, making it hard to form new relationships because of the obstacles I faced in my 'home life'. My time was largely consumed by meetings, court hearings, and parental visits. Most days felt heavier than the next. Frankly, sometimes we all need a ‘pick me up’. I definitely had quite a few of those days during my childhood. 

That’s what “Talia’s Totes” is going to provide, a ‘pick me up’. Something for a child (whoms facing challenges they shouldn’t have to) to put a smile on their face. Not a “need” but a “WANT”.

Our organization's mission is to provide care totes to foster children during particularly tough days, such as when they enter the foster care system, attend court hearings, or move to a new foster home. We aim to provide therapeutic support items that cater to their age, gender, and cognitive development. These items may include journals, skincare masks, coloring books, and blankets. Our goal is to provide them with the 'wants' in their totes, as it's essential to feel cared for and comforted. This initiative serves as a reminder that not every day will be as difficult.

06/03/2025

Happy Pride Month to all, especially to our LGBTQIA youth in foster care.

🌈❤️ At Talia’s Totes, we believe every young person deserves to feel seen, loved, and supported—especially those navigating the foster care system. That’s why we are deeply committed to supporting LGBTQ+ youth in foster care, who often face unique challenges and hardships.

These brave young individuals are not just surviving—they are shining, despite the obstacles they face. Through every tote bag we create and every donation we make, we hope to provide more than just essentials—we want to offer hope, comfort, and a message of belonging.

No one should have to face foster care alone, or without the freedom to be their true selves. By standing with LGBTQ+ youth, we’re helping build a community where love, acceptance, and pride are at the center. Because every young person deserves a safe space to grow and thrive.

Thank you for joining us on this journey to make a difference, one tote at a time. Together, we can uplift these incredible youth and remind them that they are never alone. 🌟

05/14/2025

⬇️Did you know ⬇️

‼️May is Foster Parent Awareness Month. ‼️

Talia’s Totes would like to take this opportunity to express its heartfelt appreciation to all foster parents, whether past, present, or kinship caregivers, as well as those who are making a difference in the lives of these children. Your selfless dedication provides these children with a safe, caring, and loving home.♥️

05/02/2025

🥳 BIG NEWS ‼️

Big news for Tennessee foster families!

During the Dollywood 40th Anniversary celebration, Dolly Parton announced a new partnership between Dollywood, the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services, and Every Child TN.

What’s included? One complimentary day at Dollywood for every child in foster care who visits with their Tennessee foster family.

Submit a request at least two weeks before your visit and upload each child’s placement contract through Dollywood’s secure portal.

Get started here: https://www.dollywood.com/community-relations/foster-families/

Let’s kick off Foster Care Awareness Month with memories that will last a lifetime — please share this post so every foster family hears the good news!

04/29/2025

15 Tote bags made it to the Murfreesboro DCS office today! 🥳😀👝

15 Kids 🧒 👧 will have a nice little surprise on some of the most challenging days!

‼️Please, share our page with friends, family, neighbors etc so we can continue to get donations to help touch more kiddos! 🗣️