Since our founding in 2016,

Bags For Buddies has made a significant impact on the lives of foster children across New Jersey. Here are some of our accomplishments:

- Distributed Hundreds of Duffle Bags: With the generous support of donors and partners, we have provided hundreds of duffle bags to children entering the foster care system, ensuring they have a respectful way to transport their belongings.

- Partnered with Local Organizations: We have built strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations, enabling us to broaden our reach and gather more resources for foster children.

- Raised Awareness: Through the community and social media campaigns, and collaboration with others, we have raised awareness about the challenges faced by foster children and the importance of treating them with dignity and respect.

- Expand Our Programs: Beyond providing duffle bags, we plan to start initiatives to offer educational materials, mentoring programs, and financial assistance to foster children and their families.

Bags For Buddies is a passionate and dedicated team committed to improving the lives of foster children in New Jersey. Our team includes:

- DCF Workers & Case Workers: These incredible workers are the backbone of our organization. They help with everything from organizing the bags and distributing bags to mentoring foster children and advocating for policy changes.

- Partners and Donors: We are gaining supporters through networking with generous partners and donors who share our vision of treating foster children with the dignity and respect they deserve. Their contributions are vital to our mission and enable us to continue our work.

At Bags For Buddies, we believe in the power of community and the impact of small acts of kindness. Together, we are making a difference, one duffle bag at a time.

JackEdward Schmick is the founder and driving force behind Bags For Buddies. His journey in the foster care system began at the age of five, where he experienced firsthand the challenges and indignities of having his personal belongings transported in black trash bags during relocations. These experiences deeply impacted JackEdward, igniting a passion to ensure that no child should endure such indignity.

At the age of ten, JackEdward found stability and love through adoption into a caring family. This transformative experience inspired him to establish Bags For Buddies in 2016, with the support of a Knights of Columbus Chapter. His vision is to replace the use of trash bags with duffle bags for foster children across New Jersey, aiming to provide dignity and comfort during a challenging time.

Under JackEdward's leadership, Bags For Buddies has grown into a respected organization, dedicated to expanding its impact beyond New Jersey. His ultimate goal is to see Bags For Buddies implemented state-to-state, ensuring that every child entering the foster care system receives the respect and care they deserve through a personal duffle bag.

JackEdward's passion and commitment continue to drive Bags For Buddies forward, inspiring others to join in creating a brighter future for foster children nationwide.