Tampa International Airport turns unclaimed bags into hope for kids entering foster care

Tampa International Airport is once again giving abandoned luggage new purpose through a community program benefiting children entering foster care.

This week, TPA presented a record 238 unclaimed suitcases, backpacks and other items that were never picked up from the Airport's Lost and Found Department to Hillsborough County Children's Services and its Duffels of Dignity program.

The donation marks the second consecutive year that Tampa International Airport has contributed to the program, which provides new or gently used bags and luggage to children entering foster care, living in emergency shelters or fleeing domestic violence. The program helps replace trash bags often used to carry personal belongings, offering children a more dignified and supportive start during difficult transitions.

"Every year, hundreds of bags are turned into our Lost and Found Department and, unfortunately, are never claimed," TPA Senior Manager of Guest Experience Shannon Boos said. "Instead of simply disposing of those bags, we wanted to make sure they went to good use."

Boos said the team in Lost and Found diligently works to locate the owner of any lost items, looking for names, contact information or any other clues associated with the property. When an owner cannot be located and no one comes forward to claim the items over a certain time period, the lost property is donated to local charities to make room for the constant flow of new items left behind at the Airport.

"For children entering foster care, a duffel bag may seem like a small thing, but it can make a tremendous difference," Boos said. "It gives them a safe, dignified way to carry their personal belongings during what is often one of the most difficult times in their lives."

Last year, Tampa International Airport donated 119 bags to children in the community, and this year's donation of 238 bags doubles that total.

Since launching in October 2022, the Duffels of Dignity program has collected more than 2,000 bags for children in need through individual donations and partnerships with various local organizations.