Isabella DiFiore created Bella’s Backpacks with items for the children who are taken to the Dove House Advocacy Center to be interviewed and examined. Included are items like a small blanket to cover when being examined, and toothbrush/toothpaste since many come with nothing but what they are wearing. Also included are coloring book/crayons, journal/pen, stress ball to hold when being interviewed, water bottle/snack, and more items to instill comfort.
Isabella, (“Bella”) also places inside the packs an inspirational note as well as verse from Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Initially funding the program herself, Isabella, a Freshman at Statesville Senior High School has received monetary and in-kind donations from numerous community organizations including Statesville Woman’s Club. In 2023, SWC collected comfort critters to place inside the bags. Starting the program two years ago, Bella donated over 225 backpacks in 2022 and over 450 in 2023.
If you would like to donate, please check out Bella’s Backpacks website – http://bellasbackpacks.com
