MyPack first-night backpacks
Every child has the right to feel safe and cared for, especially on their first night in out-of-home care. Yet, many children enter care with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. MyPack is an Adopt Change initiative designed to provide comfort and a sense of belonging through thoughtfully curated first-night packs for children and young people (aged 3+).
Each MyPack includes essentials like:
- A soft toy to offer comfort
- A handmade blanket for cosiness and security
- Pyjamas and underwear for a fresh start
- A toothbrush and toothpaste to feel clean and ready for a new day
- A water bottle for comfort and hydration
- A colouring book/pad and a pencil case with texters for creative expression
Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our incredible community of supporters who lovingly craft handmade blankets and donate soft toys. These tokens of care send a powerful message to each child and young person: You are valued, and you are not alone. Your generosity is truly appreciated.
MyPacks provide so much more than just practical items – they offer emotional support at a time when it’s needed most.
- The warmth of a handmade blanket brings a sense of safety and comfort.
- A backpack of their own provides a feeling of ownership and security when the world feels uncertain.
- A special teddy bear becomes a companion, bringing reassurance and a sense of belonging.
- Texters and a colouring pad offer an outlet for self-expression when words are hard to find.
These emotional benefits are priceless and play a crucial role in easing the transition into care.
Making a difference, one pack at a time
To date, 1,055 MyPacks have been lovingly assembled and delivered by Adopt Change across New South Wales, Queensland and Tasmania. But the need doesn’t stop there – our vision is to reach every child in care across Australia.
How you can help
Adopt Change is actively seeking sponsorships and grants to expand MyPack nationwide. We also offer MyPacks to organisations on a fee-for-service model. Together, we can make a profound impact on the lives of children and young people entering out-of-home care.
Support MyPack today
Your contribution can help provide comfort, security and emotional support to a child on their first night in care. Join us in making a difference.
Here’s how you can get involved:
1. Donate financially
Your financial contribution helps us continue our mission. Visit our donations page to make a gift. Every dollar makes a difference.
2. Knit handmade blankets
Add a personal touch of comfort by knitting blankets for MyPacks. We recommend blankets sized around 1 metre by 1 metre using 8-ply yarn to fit perfectly in the backpacks. These handmade items provide warmth and show that someone cares.
3. Donate new items
We’re always in need of essential items for the packs, including:
- Pyjamas (all sizes)
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste
- Colouring books and textas
- Backpacks and other first-night necessities
Before purchasing, please contact us to check our current needs.
4. Get in touch
If you’d like to donate knitted blankets or enquire about providing MyPacks for children in care through your department or agency, please reach out to us.
Your generosity helps us bring comfort, security and hope to children and young people during one of the most challenging times of their lives. Thank you for making a difference.
Postage details
NSW | PO Box 595 Dulwich Hill 2203
VIC | P.O Box 4217, Alfredton Victoria 3350
Thank you also to the following foundations who have provided grants, and/or support, to allow us to deliver MyPacks.
Each year approximately 2,422 children enter out-of-home care in Queensland. Nambour, in Southern Queensland was identified as an area of high need. Through the support of the Sundale Community Foundation 60 MyPacks have been assembled and distributed to Nambour. We greatly appreciate the support of Anglicare Southern Queensland and Church of Christ Southern Queensland for distributing the MyPacks to children and young people in out-of-home Ccre.
Approximately 208 children and young people entering out-of-home care in Tasmania each year. The Tasmanian Expansion Project will deliver 670 MyPacks over 36 months to children and young people in out-of-home care in Tasmania.
