FIRST in Real Estate Collecting Backpacks for Foster Kids

The Greater Tampa Association of Realtors (GTAR) recently unveiled the "Backpacks for Foster Kids" program to collect new backpacks for foster children from multiple agencies.  All backpacks collected will be distributed through "Voices For Children," which works with the Guardian ad Litem program and Hillsborough Kids, Inc.  This new program is a community outreach effort endorsed by New Tampa's FIRST in Real Estate.

Many foster children have to move from one family to another weekly or even daily, using a garbage bag or a grocery bag, and those make lousy traveling companions.  The "Backpacks for Foster Kids" program collects new backpacks, soft-sided suitcases, duffel bags and carry-ons for foster children.  With each donation, one less child has to use a plastic garbage bag when it's time to move.

"I am extremely pleased that the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors is taking such an active role in helping children in our community," says Voices For Chldren director Lisa Semeyn.

"I'm excited that our Association is committed to helping kids," adds GTAR president Brad Monroe.  "We are proud that FIRST in Real Estate has taken this need to heart and is an authorized donation center to accept (the backpacks)."

"This program gives children a chance to be cared about, belived in and have something that belongs to them," says Vicky Goggin, Owner/Broker of FIRST in Real Estate.

Donation of the backpacks by the public are greatly appreciated.  To drop off a new backpack, check the list of locations at www.GTAR.org, or visit FIRST in Real Estate (8709 Hunter's Green Dr., in the former Model & Visitor Center building).

GTAR is the voice for more than 9,200 real estate professions in the Tampa Bay area.  FIRST in Real Estate, as a member of GTAR, maintains the highest standards of conduct in the real estate and business brokerage profession.  For more information, call FIRST in Real Estate at 994-0909.