Rockwall Nonprofit Helps Foster Children āBorrow Hopeā on Their First Night in Care
Local organization provides essential bags for children arriving with little or nothing
More than 28,000 children are in the Texas foster care system at any given timeābut that number shifts constantly, reflecting how many children are entering uncertain situations every day.
In Rockwall County, one nonprofit is stepping in to make that first night feel a little less overwhelming.
Qavah the Storehouse is providing āFirst Night Bagsā to children entering foster careābackpacks or duffle bags filled with new clothing, pajamas, hygiene items, books, and comfort items like blankets or stuffed animals.
āGiving a child a First Night Bag offers comfort and hope,ā said Co-Director Kelly Archibald. āFor many, itās the first time they have something that belongs just to them.ā
The effort is especially highlighted during Child Abuse Awareness Month in April, but the need exists year-round.
The mission behind Qavah is also deeply personal. Co-founder Richard Archibald experienced instability growing up and understands firsthand the challenges many vulnerable children face. Today, he serves the community as an attorney and is a candidate for Judge of Rockwall County Court at Law #1. (VIDEO OF HIS STATEMENT HERE)
āI know firsthand the impact on a childās confidence and emotional well-being when they go to school in shoes and clothes that donāt fit,ā he said. āQavah helps provide these basic needsārestoring confidence, creating opportunity, and shaping what these children will one day bring to our communities.ā
Each bag is intentionally packed with brand-new itemsāthings the team says they would give their own children.
The organization now faces a growing challenge: space. Leaders say their biggest need is a dedicated storage facility and, ultimately, a location where foster families can come shop for essentials at no cost in a welcoming environment.
Financial support is also critical to keep the bags stocked.
Qavah encourages the community to get involved through donations, volunteering, or simply helping spread awareness. Leaders say every contribution helps a child walk into an uncertain situation with a little more dignityāand a little more hope.
**Whatās in a First Night Bag:**
Backpack/Duffle Bag filled with the following age-appropriate items:
Clothes
Pajamas
Hygiene products
Toothpaste and toothbrush
Soap/bodywash
Shampoo
Deodorant
Coloring Books/Crayons/Books
Something of comfort (age-appropriate, like a stuffed animal)
Blanket
About the Founders
Richard Archibald is an attorney and community leader who has dedicated years to advocating for vulnerable children. He previously served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and on the CASA State Board, and is an active Rotarian who was honored as Rotarian of the Year for his commitment to āService Above Self.ā
Kelly Archibald is a small business owner, Co-Director of Qavah the Storehouse, and creator and host of Qavah the Podcast. She also serves on the Child Welfare Board and advocates for children and families in need.
Cheyenne Weable is a small business owner, realtor, and former kindergarten teacher who has long supported children in foster care through her foster closet and service on the Child Welfare Board. She now serves as Co-Director of Qavah the Storehouse.
About Qavah the Storehouse
Qavah the Storehouse is a community-driven 501(c)(3) serving children in foster care, youth at risk of removal, and families facing hardship in Rockwall County and surrounding communities. Through its foster closet and outreach programs, the organization provides clothing, hygiene items, and other essentials while partnering with volunteers and community supporters to ensure vulnerable children feel seen, valued, and supported.
(Photos by Alex Archibald / Qavah the Storehouse)