What is a Grow Bag?

A Grow Bag is a rolling duffle bag filled with new or like-new children's clothing and shoes; pediatric over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and hygiene items; and developmental toys.

What is the Item of the Month?

At every DFW-FRUA meeting we will have a Grow Bag Item of the Month. Please bring items so that we may increase the Grow Bag inventory. See the Events Calendar for more details.

How is a Grow Bag used?

Those who are traveling to adopt take a Grow Bag (or its equivalent in quantity), with them to the orphanage and donate the goods to the orphanage in FRUA's name. Those who use the bag FRUA provides can then use the bag to bring home souvenirs, etc. and return it to FRUA once they arrive home.

Where do the goods for the Grow Bags come from?

They are donated by DFW FRUA families at the Russian New Year party (donations also are accepted at any FRUA meeting throughout the year) or donated by the communities (church, school, relatives, etc.) of FRUA members. Buckner Orphan Care International also donates new shoes and other items from their Dallas warehouse.

How do I request and obtain a Grow Bag?

Contact the Grow Bag Coordinator with the following information:

• Where you are adopting from: city, orphanage name or number if known, type of orphanage (baby home, special needs, home for older children, etc.)
• Known or anticipated travel date
• Anything you may know about particular items needed by the orphanage (provided by the adoption agency -- if no information is provided, please ask your agency if they know of specific goods that the orphanage needs)

When is the best time to request a Grow Bag?

When you can provide all of the above information. Grow Bag requests that come within a week of travel may be difficult for FRUA to fulfill -- we'll do our best.

How can I help with the Grow Bag program?

If you wish to donate goods of the type described above please contact the Orphanage Support Coordinator.