Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Foster Love Project ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Foster Love Project honored by Project Star of the Children’s Institute](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/foster-love-project-honored-by-project-star-of-the-childrens-institute/) - Thank you to project Star of The Children's Institute for honoring Foster Love Project with your Philanthropy - [Angels in Adoption Recipient](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/angels-in-adoption-recipient/) - In July of 2016, FLP founder, Kelly Hughes, was honored by U.S. Senator Bob Casey with the Congressional Coalition - [Foster Love Project Chosen as 2018 Grant Recipient by the Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/foster-love-project-chosen-as-2018-grant-recipient-by-the-mt-lebanon-junior-womens-club/) - We were extremely grateful to be chosen as the 2018 grant recipient by the Mt. Lebanon Junior Women's Club. - [Foster Love Project honored in the top 3 of nonprofits by the Pittsburgh City Paper](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/foster-love-project-honored-in-the-top-3-of-nonprofits-by-the-pittsburgh-city-paper/) - We are honored to be named in the top 3 of nonprofits in the Pittsburgh region by Pittsburgh - [Kelly Hughes Featured on Western Pennsylvania Game Changers](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/kelly-hughes-featured-on-western-pennsylvania-game-changers/) - Our founder, Kelly Hughes, was recently featured on the podcast, Western Pennsylvania - [TV Interviews](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/tv-interviews/) - KDKA CBS- Pittsburgh Live Today Interview (Sept 2017) WPXI NBC Interview with Courtney - [Features](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/features/) - Charity Koala feature Interview with Better the Burgh PghMomtourage article Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - [Podcast and Radio](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/podcast-and-radio/) - NPR Interview 90.5 WESA- "A Bag Of Essentials Can Offer The Comfort A Foster Child Needs" ## Pages - [Homepage](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/) - The Foster Love Project is a nonprofit that provides support for children and foster families. Learn more, donate, and support local foster children here! - [FLP Shopping Center](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/flp-shopping-center/) - Foster families can visit our shopping center located in Wilkinsburg provides clothing, diapers, books, toiletries, baby gear + more available for FREE! - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/terms-conditions/) - Welcome to Foster Love Project! These terms and conditions outline the rules and regulations for the use of Foster Love Project's Website, located at https://www.fosterloveproject.org/. By accessing this website we assume you accept these terms and conditions. Do not continue to use Foster Love Project if you do not agree to take all of the - [Privacy Policy](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Policy Foster Love Project is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information when you visit our website (https://www.fosterloveproject.org). Information We Collect We collect the following types of information: Names: We collect names to personalize our communications with you. Email Addresses: We collect email addresses - [FLP Impact Report](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/impact/) - [Volunteer](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/volunteers/) - We're always looking for volunteers to help with our foster care support services. Learn more about volunteer opportunities and what you can do to help. - [Speaker Requests](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/speaker-requests/) - Have An Event Where You’d Like To Share Our Mission? We welcome the opportunity to share about Foster Love Project, foster care and adoption in our community and beyond. - [Request FLP Placement Bags](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-programs/request-flp-placement-bags/) - FLP Bags are emergency kits for children changing home without warning. Learn more about you can donate or get access to our FLP bags here! - [Our Programs](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-programs/) - Support for Families and Kids Who Are Impacted By Foster Care, Kinship Care, and Adoption. Learn more about our foster care programs and resources here! - [Donation Needs](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/donate/donation-needs/) - The foster care system needs more than just donations of money. We need your help in providing basic necessities to children & teens. See how you can help here! - [Donate Monthly](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/donate-monthly/) - Support our local foster youth by becoming a monthly donor. Your support will provide increased opportunity, greater support, and abundant resources. - [Donate](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/donate/) - Your donation supports our mission to show love in action to children impacted by foster and kinship care through the provision of goods, services & support. - [Our Staff + Team](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/staff/) - Our staff is dedicated to providing foster children with the resources they need to succeed in life. Learn more about our staff here! - [Request for Items](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/flp-shopping-center/request-for-items/) - We need your help! See our requested items here and what you can donate to help provide resources to foster familes. - [Board of Directors](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/board-of-directors/) - See the board behind Foster Love Project and learn more about how they help us provide care to foster children in need. - [Test](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/test/) - [Tribute Gifts](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/donate/tribute-gifts/) - Are you looking to mark a special day or to honor a special person in your life by making a contribution to impact kids in foster care? Learn more here! - [FLP Center Volunteer](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/flp-shopping-center/flp-center-volunteer/) - Volunteer with Foster Love project and make a difference in a child's life. See our volunteer information here and contact us to learn more. - [Thank You](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/newsletter-thank-you/) - Thank you for signing up for the Foster Love Project newsletter! We look forward to sharing our latest news and updates with you! - [Thank You](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/thank-you/) - Thank you for getting in touch! We appreciate you contacting us. One of our colleagues will get back in touch with you soon!Have a great day! - [Story and Mission](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/story-and-mission/) - Foster Love Project is a nonprofit organization founded to support children transitioning to foster care in need of clothing and necessities. Learn more here - [Resources for Caregivers](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/resources-for-caregivers/) - Review our collection of top resources to help foster and adoptive caregivers thrive and navigate foster and adoptive care. - [Thank You](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/thank-you-contact/) - Thank you for contacting Foster Love Project. A member of our team will be in touch with you within 24-48 hours to assist you. We look forward to learning more about your inquiry and how we can help. - [Thank You](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/thank-you-volunteer/) - Thank you for signing up to volunteer with Foster Love Project. Your donation of time and effort will help us to make a major impact in the lives of children experiencing foster care. We look forward to working with you! - [In the News](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/in-the-news/) - See the latest news, tips, and resources from Foster Love Project with our blog. - [Contact](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/contact-us/) - Want to Get In Touch? Contact us if you have questions, want to volunteer with a group or would like to give to the Foster Love Project. Kelly Hughes is also available on a limited basis to speak to your group about the Foster Love Project and foster care in general. Contact us below. ## Our Team - [Heather Zambito](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/heather-zambito-center-assistant/) - Heather Zambito joined Foster Love Project as a Center Assistant in October, 2022, after volunteering for several years with the Placement Bag Drive. In 2023, she took on the role of Programs Coordinator, and she now oversees several of our annual and ongoing programs. She has a Bachelor of Science in Communication, and has worked - [Khadijat Yussuff](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/khadijat-yussuff-2/) - Khadijat Yussuff is a Pittsburgh transplant by way of NYC, and is currently pursuing a Master's in Data Science from the University of Colorado Boulder. In addition to working in the Pittsburgh non-profit and youth arts education worlds for the past 8 years and volunteering with local farms and food kitchens, they also enjoy creating 3d - [Lizzi Montanti](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/lizzi-montanti-2/) - Lizzi joined Foster Love Project as an Administrative Assistant in June 2026, and is driven to use her communication skills to help transform lives. In her role, she provides organizational support to our directors, focusing on development, communications and Foster Love Project programs. Lizzi earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism from Ohio University's - [Ashley Mackin](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/ashley-mackin/) - Ashley earned her B.A.s in Psychology and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from The University of Maine and has since built a career around community engagement and affordable housing work rooted in connection, support, and relationship-building. Her passion for organizations that help fill critical gaps in care and resources is what drew her to Foster - [Mercedes Montano](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/isabel-rozsa-center-assistant/) - Mercedes Montano joined the Foster Love Project team as a Programs Assistant in March 2024. As a former Center shopper and Teen Connections participant, she brings a meaningful, firsthand perspective to her role. With a background in retail, customer service, and the restaurant industry, Mercedes has developed a strong passion for serving and supporting others. - [Kristi Snow](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/kris-snow-volunteer-coordinator/) - Kristi Snow joined Foster Love Project in September 2022 as a Center Assistant. In 2024, she transitioned to the role of Volunteer Coordinator, in which she now helps organize and support the amazing volunteers who support our mission. With a strong background in working with women, youth, and children’s groups from the church she attends, - [Libby Hertzler](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/angela-damiano-programs-coordinator/) - Libby Hertzler joined the Foster Love Project team as a Program Assistant in May of 2024. Libby is a Pittsburgh native and a student at the University of Pittsburgh, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Applied Developmental Psychology and plans to graduate in May of 2026. She has developed a strong passion - [Jina O'Neill](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/director-of-development-and-communications-jina-oneill/) - Jina’s true passion is for helping others! She considers herself a child and animal advocate. And refers to herself as a “nonprofit nerd”. Shortly after obtaining her degree from Chatham University, she relocated to Charlotte, NC and began her career in the finance industry with Vanguard. She also earned a Master of Science in Organization Development from - [Kristen Moss](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/kristen-moss/) - Kristen Moss is a wife and mother who is passionate about helping children, especially those in most need. She enjoys volunteering at local non-profits and wants to live by example to show her children the importance of giving your time and effort to helping others. Kristen is a Manager at Maher Duessel and is a - [Jesse Hooke](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/jesse-hook/) - Jesse Hooke is a Senior Product Owner in the IT department at Duquesne Light Company where he has built a career over the past eight years through multiple roles. He is passionate about bridging the gap between business needs and technology, delivering data-driven solutions that meet stakeholder expectations. He holds a Bachelor of Science in - [Michelle Espinosa-Clark](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/ja-neen-jones/) - Michelle Espinosa-Clark has extensive experience expanding access to services for individuals with mental health and substance use disorders in the justice system. She leads national training and technical assistance initiatives promoting equity, trauma-informed practices, and behavioral health integration. She has co-led expert panels and learning collaboratives on trauma-informed approaches and family engagement strategies, and in - [Leonette Lewis](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/summer-dean/) - Leonette Lewis is a legal professional with a strong background in family law and a deep commitment to protecting vulnerable children and supporting families in crisis. A graduate of Howard University School of Law, Leonette served as a judicial law clerk to a Family Court judge in Washington, D.C., where she worked on abuse and - [Elizabeth Kreitler](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/leon-harrison/) - Liz started her career as a public high school teacher and went on to work in education non-profits before earning a Masters in Statistics and transitioning to work in technology. She now works as a Product Manager on the Ads Safety team at Google, ensuring that ads shown by Google are safe and compliant. She - [Russell Ivey](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/russell-ivey/) - Russell Ivey is a Director of Finance at Thermo Fisher Scientific. He focuses on leveraging his expertise to drive profitable growth and create value within organizations. In a career spanning over two decades, he is known for his financial acumen. He has built and led high performing teams while driving process optimization, change management and - [Tabatha Wendorff](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/tabatha-wendorff/) - Tabatha has spent a lot of time volunteering with organizations that impact the lives of children and families in her community. She is committed to making the community a place where everyone feels like they belong, and that they can thrive. Professionally, Tabatha is a passionate HR professional who believes that an organization cannot succeed - [Krissy Evans](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/krissy-evans-flp-center-manager/) - Krissy Evans joined the FLP staff as our Donation Center Manager in February of 2021. Krissy brings a passion for helping others as well as enthusiasm for creating, organizing and planning to our team. Krissy holds a degree in Gerontology from California University of PA, but her love of serving others is not limited to - [Jamie Strate](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/jeffrey-alex/) - Jamie Strate currently serves as the Director of Marketing and Community Engagement at Continuum Capital Advisors, a financial planning firm based in downtown Pittsburgh. Jamie leverages her expertise to engage communities and drive the company's marketing strategies forward. She joined Continuum Capital as the Director of Insurance, overseeing communication between our clients, advisors, and home - [Monica Manes Gay](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/april-perry/) - Monica Manes Gay is the Executive Director of Institutional Advancement at Winchester Thurston School. In that role, she is responsible for the admissions, advancement and marketing/communications teams, while balancing the fundraising needs of the Annual Fund and a $21.5 Million Campaign. Monica joined WT in 2018 and has over 25 years experience in fundraising, stewardship, - [Carley Matusak](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/carley-matusak/) - Carley joined Foster Love’s Teen Connections program as a mentor in January 2022. Her personal experience as an adoptee has fueled her passion for supporting initiatives and events associated with adoption and foster care. Having shared a similar upbringing, Carley empathizes with the children on a deep level, allowing her to connect with them in - [Andre Scott, MSP](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/andre-scott-msp/) - Andre is a native of Pittsburgh, PA. He attended Duquesne University and the University of Phoenix for his undergrad and graduate studies. As father of 4 children and community stakeholder, he has been involved in violence prevention efforts, local/state government, and served on various non-profit boards to increase community connections. Andre is the Owner/Lead Mental Health - [Jess Murray](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/jess-murray/) - My name is Jess Murray, and I am a proud YINZER and adoptee. I work in a few different roles, but most of my professional time is spent as a therapist and professor, and most of my personal time is spent keeping up with my 2 very energetic toddlers. Why I am part of Teen Connections: - [Kelly Hughes](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/kelly-hughes-executive-director-founder/) - Kelly Hughes is wife to Andrew and mama to 4 kids, two of whom were adopted through foster care. Kelly holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Northland International University. As foster parents to eight children at different times, she and her husband were often overwhelmed at the challenges during transition times. With a burden - [Elizabeth Baldoni](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/elizabeth-baldoni-executive-assistant-and-outreach-coordinator/) - Elizabeth Baldoni joined our staff in September 2019. She currently serves as our Operations Manager. A Duquesne University graduate, Liz spent many years as an English teacher in a nearby urban district. In her role at Foster Love Project, Liz oversees a myriad of aspects in helping our programs run smoothly. She ensures we always - [Valerie Rose](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/our-team/valerie-rose/) - Valérie is the CEO of Rose Real Estate, LLC, and a Real Estate Agent with Coldwell Banker Realty. She started her career with JP Morgan Brussels in Belgium, her country of origin. French is her first language. After the acquisition of the company by the Bank of New York, Valérie was granted a temporary transfer ## FAQs - [What Are FLP’s Donation Needs?](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/faqs/what-are-flps-donation-needs/) - Go here to easily order items from our Amazon wishlist for items needed in the center. Go here to order books from our book wishlist. Ongoing needs at our donation center: Single & double strollers (great condition) Convertible car seats + boosters (new only) - [Where is FLP located?](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/faqs/where-is-flp-located/) - Foster Love Project is located on the East side of Pittsburgh at 463 S. Trenton Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15221. - [What is the FLP Free Shopping Center?](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/faqs/what-is-the-flp-free-shopping-center/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.Ut enim ad minim veniam, - [Who Can Volunteer at Foster Love Project?](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/faqs/who-can-volunteer-at-foster-love-project/) - We welcome families with children 16 or older, church groups, corporate groups, sports teams, scout troops, and more to help support our operations. ## Programs - [Back2School Program](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/programs/back-to-school/) - Help kids go back to school with dignity by receiving new, brand-name shoes, sweatshirts, socks, backpacks, and school supplies. - [Angel Tree Holiday Gift Program](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/programs/angel-tree-holiday-gift-program/) - Support local foster children this holiday season by helping us provide gifts. Learn more about our gift program here and how you can help support our mission. - [Family Support Weekend for Foster, Kinship & Adoptive Families](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/programs/retreat-for-foster-adoptive-families/) - The Foster Love Project provides a weekend of fun and relaxation for foster/adoptive families. Learn more about our upcoming retreat here! - [Teen Connections Group](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/programs/teen-connections-group/) - Our teen connections group is a safe space for youth in foster care to express their experiences and get support from their peers. Learn more here! - [Excellent Hair Care](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/programs/excellent-hair-care/) - Taking care of your foster child includes caring for their skin and hair. Give them the attention they need with these tips from Foster Love Project. - [Annual Bag Drive](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/programs/annual-bag-drive/) - Our inaugural program which provides kids who have to move homes without warning receive a bag of new belongings to help provide both practical and comfort supports. ## Events - [Back 2 School Bash](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/events/back-2-school-bash/) - SUPPORT OUR BACK 2 SCHOOL INITIATIVE! You can help us provide support for more than 250 youth who are impacted by foster care or adoption this coming school year. Go here to help provide new shoes, hoodies, backpacks, school supplies and more. Go here to sign up to volunteer. ## Volunteer - [FLP Bag Drive](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/volunteer/annual-bag-drive/) - Our FLP bags are given to foster agencies to ensure that kids are able to take a bag of new belongings with them when they change homes. Learn more here! - [Host a Bag Packing Party](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/volunteer/host-a-bag-packing-party/) - Looking for a fun and meaningful way to give back? Host a Bag Packing Party! Gather your family, friends, or coworkers for a great time together while supporting youth in foster care. Every bag makes a difference! Assign items needed for each bag. (The complete lists are found here.) Pick a date and location for - [Bag Contents](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/volunteer/bag-contents/) - FLP Bag Drive Bag Contents Please note that we only give out bags that contain each required item. Please do not add optional items unless every required item is complete. We do ask that you do not include religious books or items that have monkeys on them. Please avoid shirts that say "I love mommy or daddy" as - [Love Through Lemonade](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/volunteer/love-through-lemonade/) - Kids can host a lemonade stand to support kids in foster care! - [Center Volunteer](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/volunteer/center-volunteer/) - Volunteering at the FLP Center We are grateful for each person who is able to help volunteer at our free shopping center for kids in foster care. If you have taken the volunteer orientation , we welcome you to sign up for shifts here. Our next Volunteer Orientation will be held soon. Please fill out - [Host a Collection Drive](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/volunteer/host-a-collection-drive/) - Host a collection drive at your school, church, or business to support kids in foster care. - [Corporate Fridays](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/volunteer/corporate-fridays/) - Employee groups can sign up together for one of our Corporate Friday volunteer days. - [Angel Tree Holiday Gift Program](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/volunteer/angel-tree-holiday-gift-program/) - Each holiday season, we are able to support more than 200 kids who are impacted by foster care or adoption with a holiday gift of their choice. ## Resources - [Resources for Foster/Adoptive Caregivers](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/resources/resources-for-foster-adoptive-caregivers/) - Learn more about understanding how trauma affects children who have experienced foster care or adoption. - [Beginning Steps for Foster Care](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/resources/beginning-steps-for-foster-care/) - Learn more about how to begin your journey as a foster parent. - [Black Hair Care Resources](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/resources/black-hair-care-resources/) - Check out our resources to ensure your child’s hair and skin receive the utmost care and attention. ## Categories - [Media Coverage](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/category/media-coverage/) - [Achievements](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/category/achievements/) ## Member Type - [Board of Directors](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/?member-type=board-of-directors) - [Staff](https://www.fosterloveproject.org/?member-type=staff)