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The dangers of methamphetamine use are well documented. In fact, meth is so dangerous that law enforcement officials put on protective gear before going into a meth home. Yet, teddy bears, toys, sippy cups and toothbrushes are often found next to meth-making supplies.
When children are removed from a meth home, they are not allowed to take any of their belongings with them because of the contamination risk. Department of Children and Family Services offices in southern Illinois often report that, on average, they can only afford to cover the most basic needs of 10 children per week.
This growing problem touched the Southern Illinois 4-H Legislative Ambassadors, a group of caring 4-H members from Edwards, Jefferson, Hamilton, Wabash, Wayne and White counties. This group organized and implemented the HOPE project – Helping Our Peers with Essentials.
"Through this project, 4-H members obtain donations of toiletries and basic essentials from area 4-H clubs, community organizations, churches and businesses," explains Melinda States, University of Illinois Extension youth development educator. "These supplies are then assembled into 'HOPE backpacks' and provided to local DCFS offices for distribution to children taken from meth homes."
Each HOPE bag contains a new towel and washcloth, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, a comb and a folder with basic school supplies (notebook, pencils, pens, crayons). Bags are packed to meet the needs of various ages. Infants and toddlers receive diapers, diaper wipes and an age-appropriate toy. Bags for pre-school and early elementary children include a coloring book, stuffed animal or toy. Jr. High kids and teens receive a puzzle book and personal care items needed for their ages.
Since the HOPE project was started in 2005, more than 350 backpacks have been distributed to children through DCFS offices in southern Illinois. With each backpack valued at more than $20, these responsible, caring 4-H ambassadors have given more than $7,000 back to southern Illinois communities … and more importantly, they have supported their peers through tough, troubling times.
For more information about 4-H programs in your community, contact your local U of I Extension office.
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