Our story…

We are Taran and Amber, an ordinary married couple in Calimesa, California with three kids.

Taran grew up in a big-midwestern family of 8, moving to California at the age of 6. From his early teens, he worked with deaf schools and orphanages in Baja California Mexico. This led him to realize the blessings of having a family; and the trauma and hardship of being without one.

Amber grew up as an only child in Malaysia, without her parents for most of her childhood. However, she was fortunate enough to have caring family members, including aunts, uncles and grandparents, who stepped up to provide her with love, care, and a place to call her own. These family members embraced her, ensuring she had clothes on her back, food on her plate, and a roof over her head. Yet, despite the care she received, as a young child, she still felt a sense of displacement. As she moved from house to house, she yearned for a place she could truly call home - a sanctuary where she could find solace and a sense of belonging.

One day, while reflecting on our own experiences, we learned about the heartbreaking reality faced by other children who were forced to leave their homes. Hearing about these children being handed trash bags to pack their belongings shattered our hearts. We understand the pain and loss of dignity that comes with being associated with something as disposable as a trash bag.

Driven by empathy and a deep desire to make a difference, we decided to take action and founded this organization, with the mission to provide duffel bags to children experiencing separation from their homes. These bags will serve as a powerful symbol, reminding these children that they belong in this world and are not defined by the circumstances that led to their displacement.

Each duffel bag carries not only essentials but also comfort and compassion. Carefully packed inside are items that can provide a sense of security, such as soft blankets and toys and personal care items. With every duffel bag distributed, we hope that children who once felt discarded and lost can now hold their heads high. We hope that these duffel bags can be a tangible symbol of their worth and a reminder that they belong.