Not every wound is visible. At the Center for Child Protection, we meet children in the middle of some of the most challenging moments of their lives — and for many, that includes navigating emotional pain. That’s why we created Be Well Bags: calming, take-home kits filled with simple tools designed to help kids regulate their emotions and begin the practice of healing from within.
What is a Be Well Bag?
Be Well Bags are given to children and teens who are struggling emotionally or experiencing significant stress, especially following a forensic interview, mental health check-in, or suicide risk assessment. Each bag is a gentle way of saying: “We see you. We’re here for you. And we want to help you feel better.”
“Sometimes, a child walks through our doors carrying so much fear, anxiety, or emotional pain that they don’t have the words for it,” said Vanessa Barahona, the Center’s Director of Clinical Services. “The Be Well Bags give them something they can touch, hold, and use to start feeling grounded again.”
Each bag includes comforting items like stress balls, cozy blankets, and sensory tools — small but powerful aids in helping support self-regulation. There are also journals to process difficult emotions, coloring books for creative expression, and essential oil lotions to calm the brain and body during times of stress.
“The goal is to introduce coping techniques that feel approachable,” Vanessa added. “When a child squeezes a stress ball or curls up with a soft blanket, they’re learning that they have ways to soothe themselves — and that can be incredibly empowering after trauma.”
Be Well Bags are customized for kids aged three to 17. The canvas tote bags are often decorated and then packed by our incredible corporate and community volunteer groups.
What’s in a Be Well Bag?
- Canvas Bag
- Writing Journal and Pen
- Stress Ball and Fidget Tools
- Blanket
- Coloring Book
- Colored Pencils
- Essential Oil Lotion
These bags may be small, but they carry a powerful message: healing is possible, and help is here.
Want to help kids handle big emotions?
Host a drive, donate supplies, or visit the Center to decorate bags with your team or community group.
For more info, reach out to give@centerforchildprotection.org
