Cradles to Crayons, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization, serves children in need in the greater Boston area by collecting and distributing, free of charge, new and "gently used" children's items.

In 2003 we provided over 7,000 children with everyday supplies.

Need

Q: Do you know the average age of a homeless person in Massachusetts? Read on for the answer.

More than 30,000 children in Boston - more than 1 of every 4 children you see - lives in poverty. Thousands more live in families that struggle to make ends meet. For these families, putting food on the table or paying rent can mean that a baby goes without a crib. Every day, children in greater Boston go to school without shoes that fit or warm coats.

At the same time, many families and corporations have high quality children's items that they no longer use or can no longer sell. These items take up valuable closet space or warehouse space that could be put to better use.

Our role is to provide the connection between those who have and those who need.

How we're unique

No resale: Items donated to Cradles and Crayons serve the specific needs of Boston families. All donated items - from strollers to art supplies - are provided free of charge to families in need. We never resell donated items.

Partnering: Our organization lets Boston area neighbors help one another. We work in partnership with local hospitals, community health centers, homeless shelters, and other organizations to distribute goods to families in need.

High quality: Our standard for the merchandise we distribute is simple: "good enough for our own children." We know the children who receive our items are no less-deserving than more fortunate kids, so we only provide goods they will be proud to own.

A: The average age of a homeless person in Massachusetts is 8 years old. Source: Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless