Support Local Rutherford County Babies Through a Diaper Drive

Host a Diaper Drive for Local Families Diapers are a basic need, but for many families, keeping enough on hand is a real challenge. Partnership for Children of the Foothills is launching a free Diaper Bank to help families with young children access diapers, Pull-Ups, wipes and diaper rash ointment. We are inviting churches across … Continued

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Protecting Children During Extreme Heat

Dangerous heat is expected across much of North Carolina this week, and young children are especially vulnerable when temperatures rise. Infants, toddlers and preschool-age children rely on the adults around them to recognize heat risks, adjust routines and help keep them safe. For childcare programs, summer heat safety starts with planning ahead. During days of … Continued

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Beth McCallister Recognized for a Lifetime of Community Service

Partnership for Children of the Foothills is pleased to celebrate board member Beth McCallister on her recent induction into the Second Wind Hall of Fame. Nominated by the Rotary Club of Tryon, Beth was honored for her many years of faithful service, leadership and volunteerism throughout Polk County and the greater Tryon community. The Second … Continued

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Classroom Innovation Mini Grants

Small grants. Big ideas. Brighter classrooms. Have a classroom idea? Apply today and bring it to life. Partnership for Children of the Foothills is inviting early childhood educators to apply for Classroom Innovation Mini Grants — monthly $200 grants designed to help bring creative classroom projects to life. These mini grants support projects that are designed … Continued

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North Carolina Proclaims June 2026 as Whole Child Health and Well-Being Month

June 2026 has officially been proclaimed Whole Child Health and Well-Being Month in North Carolina, shining a spotlight on what children need to grow, learn and thrive. The proclamation recognizes the importance of supporting children’s physical health, emotional well-being, development, resilience and lifelong success. It also affirms a simple but powerful idea: children do best … Continued

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Finding Joy in Play: Ellowyn’s Favorite Place to Be

On any given week, you can find Ellowyn right where she wants to be — laughing, exploring and fully immersed in play at the Play to Learn program through Partnership for Children of the Foothills. For Ellowyn, it’s more than just a playgroup. It’s her favorite place of the week. “Play to Learn is her … Continued

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“Little Sprouts, Big Fun!” Free Story Time & Play Event Blooms at KidSenses on May 1

Families are invited to a joyful morning of play, imagination and discovery at a special “Little Sprouts, Big Fun!” Fabulous Free Friday event designed just for young children. The Partnership for Children of the Foothills has teamed up with Denise Strickland, the Rootle Ambassador for Rutherford County, and KidSenses Children’s Interactive Museum to host this … Continued

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Small Tools, Big Impact: Supporting Children This April

April is a time to come together as a community with a shared purpose: supporting children and strengthening families. In recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month, Partnership for Children of the Foothills is engaging families and community partners across McDowell, Polk and Rutherford counties through meaningful, hands-on outreach. From local libraries to community events, the … Continued

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Diaper Bank
A program to help families access diapers and diapering supplies when they need extra support.
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Dolly Parton Imagination Library
A program that sends free books to children every month until their 5th birthday.
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Annual Report
An in-depth look at our programs and the ways we’re helping the community.
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