Donated Clothes Become Care Packages For Philadelphians In Need At The Giving Factory. Take A Look Inside

CBS Philadelphia

September 25, 2025

Philadelphia is consistently ranked among the poorest large cities in America, and is home to thousands of families struggling to meet even the most basic needs. But tucked away in East Falls, a nonprofit called Cradles to Crayons is rewriting that narrative —one warm coat, one backpack, one outfit at a time.

"We've got families in the city and in pockets all over the region who don't have a pair of shoes that fit," Michal Smith, executive director of Cradles to Crayons Philadelphia, said. "You don't want a 14-year-old boy wearing his aunt's coat."

That's where Cradles to Crayons steps in. Serving children from birth to age 18, the organization provides essentials like winter coats, boots, school supplies, diapers, hygiene items and more — everything a child needs to feel safe, confident and ready to learn.

Carolyn Cummings and Elaine Kittredge pack outfits for people in need at The Giving Factory in East Falls/CBS News Philadelphia

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