March Give: Cradles to Crayons

For our March Give, we are proud to partner with Cradles to Crayons - Chicago, an organization dedicated to providing children living in low-income and homeless situations with the essential items they need to thrive. We are honored to support their mission of ensuring every child feels safe, warm, and valued.

Cradles to Crayons was founded in 2002 by Lynn Margherio after she noticed that her young niece had outgrown many pieces of clothing—some of which had never been worn. She realized these unused resources could be redistributed to children who truly needed them. What started as a small initiative has now expanded into a national movement, with Cradles to Crayons operating in Massachusetts, Greater Philadelphia, and Chicagoland, as well as nationwide through their Giving Factory Direct platform.

Photo Credit: Cradles to Crayons

Childhood poverty is a widespread issue across the United States, affecting millions of children and families. The average U.S. family in poverty, with two adults and two children, lives on less than $26,500 a year—making it incredibly difficult to afford necessities beyond food, housing, and energy. Cradles to Crayons addresses a critical gap in support by providing essential clothing and supplies free of charge to children in need.

Without proper clothing, children face daily challenges. Many lack shoes that fit, warm coats for winter, or backpacks for school supplies. This issue—referred to as Clothing Insecurity—creates barriers that prevent kids from learning, playing, and fully participating in life. Cradles to Crayons follows a three-step model to connect communities that have with communities that need: community donations of new and gently used children’s items, volunteer efforts at The Giving Factory® to sort and package donations, and distribution to families through a network of service partners such as schools and social workers. By repurposing unused resources and mobilizing volunteers, Cradles to Crayons turns compassion into action—helping children feel prepared, confident, and valued in their daily lives.

Photo Credit: Cradles to Crayons

At Colored Organics, we are committed to supporting organizations that uplift children and families in need. By partnering with Cradles to Crayons - Chicago, we contribute to a mission that ensures every child has access to the essentials they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

We are honored to support an organization that prioritizes dignity, security, and opportunity for children. To learn more, donate, or volunteer, visit their website.

Each month, Colored Organics donates to an organization helping families and children in need. To learn more about our past work, click here.