About Us
Uplifting and Empowering Families on Their Foster, Adoptive and Kinship Journey
Having seen the beauty and challenges of fostering and adopting firsthand she knew children often arrived with very little and families were expected to meet immediate needs during emotional and uncertain circumstances. The calling became clear. Something needed to change. So in 2021 she built what was missing.
What started as an idea quickly grew into action. A donated space at a local church. Community support. Partnerships. Volunteers.
Today Oak Forest Foster Closet exists so families never have to hesitate because of cost or lack of supplies when they say yes to a child in need. And so no child goes without essentials that reinforce dignity comfort and belonging.
Because sometimes the difference between I want to help and I can help is access to what is needed. And that is where our story and yours continues.
Our Story
Oak Forest Foster Closet began with one family's yes.
In 2020 when Nicole and her husband, Naseem, welcomed two young brothers into their home through foster care, they knew their lives would change. Over time, love grew into permanency, and the boys officially became part of their family. Then they learned another biological sibling had been born. Without hesitation they said yes again, completing their family of five children: three adopted and two biological.
When the baby arrived Nicole realized something many foster and adoptive families experience. All the essentials were gone. She no longer had diapers, wipes, baby clothes, bottles, toys or gear. What she needed, she needed quickly.
She began searching for foster closets, places designed to provide essential items to families caring for children through foster care or adoption. What she discovered was a gap. The available resources in Houston were too far away especially for families managing last minute placements. Some foster parents were driving 45 minutes or more. Others never accessed support because it was not convenient or even known to them.
Nicole could not shake the thought. If she struggled to access resources how many other families were quietly doing the same.
Our Mission
To uplift and empower foster, adoptive, and kinship families by supplying them with vital resources such as clothing, shoes, toys, bedding, books, and more throughout their journey.
Our Vision
A community where every foster, adoptive and kinship family feels supported, and every child feels valued, seen and loved.
Compassion
We serve families with dignity and respect.
Our Values
Community
We bring together donors, volunteers and agencies in shared purpose.
Stewardship
We honor every donation, maximizing its impact for children and families.
Hope
We believe in brighter futures for every child and the families who love them.
Learn More About Our Work
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Our Impact
In 2024, we served over 2,700 families and distributed more than 17,000 essential items.
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Leadership & Board
Our dedicated team of volunteers and board members make the Closet possible every day.
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Our Partners
We’re grateful for our community of churches, agencies, and organizations who stand beside us.