Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS), the largest private oncology/hematology practice in the Southeast, collected over 1,900 bags for Georgia’s foster children during its fourth annual Totes 2 Tots suitcase drive on Monday, January 16. The event was held at 11 locations across Georgia.
Totes 2 Tots is a program dedicated to delivering new or gently used suitcases to foster children all over Georgia, who often times must shuffle their belongings from home to home in garbage bags. The event has gained widespread attention throughout the state, including that of Georgia First Lady Mary Perdue.
“The Governor and I are heartened to see the impact Georgia Cancer Specialists is making in the lives of Georgia’s foster children. They continue to have a positive influence in an area that is near to my heart. Contributing to Totes 2 Tots is a simple way for Georgians to demonstrate their dedication to a group that is too-often overlooked.”
Every Martin Luther King Jr. Day, GCS employees and their families volunteer their time off for the event, which seeks to brighten the lives of foster children with the simple gift of a nice tote bag or suitcase.
“Martin Luther King Day is intended to be a day for community outreach, not simply a day off,” said Dr. Bruce Feinberg, President/CEO of GCS. “Through Totes 2 Tots, we are able to honor Dr. King by helping to bring respect and dignity to the foster community in Georgia.”
GCS works in conjunction with the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) during Totes 2 Tots. Mary Dean Harvey, Director of DFCS, said this event is very beneficial and dearly needed.
“The Totes 2 Tots program is an invaluable asset for the many children in the Georgia Foster Care system. These children are grateful for the generosity displayed by Georgia Cancer Specialists.”
This year’s event brought in nearly double the amount of bags collected last year. Since the start of the program, over 6,200 bags have been collected.