Needed items donated to children in foster care

National and local organizations are making a difference in their communities and beyond. On Friday, the Dexter Elks donated shoes to Ezekiel’s Closet for foster children and foster families in Southeast Missouri.

Ezekiel’s Closet is a charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of foster children and foster families in Stoddard, Dunklin, Butler, and Scott counties. Founder Carrie Mosbey believes every kid deserves access to basic necessities.

At a moment’s notice, foster families may be required to meet the needs of a new age group or a new gender. Ezekiel’s Closet provides 24/7 access for children and families to find new clothes, shoes, bedding, toiletries, and toys to help meet their needs. All items are free.

Dexter Elk’s representative Shirley Alexander said, “We collected shoe sizes from c-10 to adult sizes for foster children and parents.”

All donated items are cleaned and sanitized by the big-hearted, all-volunteer staff.

“The community has been great,” said volunteer Crystal Chamberlain, adding, “Thirty kids have been helped this month.”

Organizers said items are needed to help and donations are being accepted. A wish list of items needed may be viewed online at ezekielscloset.com. A wish list is also posted on Amazon.com.