Stocking a Foster Child’s Closet: Tips and Tricks

​As a foster parent, you may feel a bit overwhelmed when it comes to stocking your foster child’s closet. Most foster kids don’t come to their foster homes with many clothes, so it can be daunting to figure out how to build their wardrobe -- especially when you're already dealing with paperwork, visits, and adjustments. Fortunately, there are several resources available that can help you get the job done without spending a fortune. Here are our top tips for stocking a foster child's closet. 

Foster Closets 
One of the best resources for foster families is local foster closets. These organizations provide clothing, toys, books, and other items at no cost to families in need. Some of these organizations will even come directly to your home with donations! You can find out if there is a local foster closet in your area by asking your agency, other foster parents in your community or searching online.  

Asking Friends and Community 
Another great way to stock your foster child’s closet is by asking friends and family for donations. Most people are more than willing to help if they know what is needed, so don’t be afraid to reach out and ask!  While you can post your request to your followers on social media, you can also post it in local parent groups in your community. Many people have clothes their kids have outgrown stored away that they'd love someone to take off their hands. 

Thrift Stores 
Thrift stores are great for kids clothes. You can often find school uniforms, jackets, or other gently used clothes here at a low price.  Your kids may even enjoy going to the thrift store and finding items they like. 

Consignment Stores & Facebook Marketplace 
You can often find higher quality gently-used clothes at kid consignment stores and Facebook Marketplace. For consignment stores, check out: 

• Once Upon a Child
• Kid to Kid
• ThredUp
• Kidizen
• Rhea Lana - Pop Up Consignment Events

Facebook Marketplace also gives you the opportunity to find items for sale in your community. You can easily find large "lots" of clothes in certain sizes. 


Stocking a foster child's closet can feel like an overwhelming task but it doesn't have to be! While these are all great sources, you will still likely have to buy some items new. Hopefully these suggestions help you fill in gaps as much as possible to stretch your dollars further. From Foster Closets, to asking friends and family members for donations, to thrift and consignment shops, there are plenty of options available that will help you stock your foster child's closet quickly and on budget! Good luck!

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