REPLENISH Culture

Honouring Identity One Box At A Time

"Replenish Culture" was conceived in the aftermath of George Floyd's tragic death in 2020 Sarah and James, fueled by over a decade of experience, embarked on a journey to bridge the gaps in support for black children within the foster care system Their initial attempt, offering additional funds to foster carers, fell short as the recipients struggled to access the right products and guidance

It was Sarah's innovative idea of a curated gift box that proved to be a gamechanger These boxes, adorned with a visually striking logo designed by looked-after children from Camden, contain essential products tailored to the unique needs of black children. The impact has been profound, providing both practical assistance and a sense of cultural understanding.

carers while highlighting the outdated support they receive. Hair care and skincare, essential components of black identity, have been overlooked for far too long, impacting the well-being of care-experienced young people. The "Replenish" boxes serve as an innovative solution, boosting the cultural competence of those involved in Corporate Parenting. These boxes not only meet practical needs but also facilitate discussions around race, making it a proactive step toward bridging uncomfortable gaps in understanding.

carers while highlighting the outdated support they receive. Hair care and skincare, essential components of black identity, have been overlooked for far too long, impacting the well-being of care-experienced young people. The "Replenish" boxes serve as an innovative solution, boosting the cultural competence of those involved in Corporate Parenting. These boxes not only meet practical needs but also facilitate discussions around race, making it a proactive step toward bridging uncomfortable gaps in understanding.

carers while highlighting the outdated support they receive. Hair care and skincare, essential components of black identity, have been overlooked for far too long, impacting the well-being of care-experienced young people. The "Replenish" boxes serve as an innovative solution, boosting the cultural competence of those involved in Corporate Parenting. These boxes not only meet practical needs but also facilitate discussions around race, making it a proactive step toward bridging uncomfortable gaps in understanding.

THE REPLENISH BOX

The stark overrepresentation of black children in the care system is a harsh reality. "Replenish Culture" acknowledges the vital role of foster

carers while highlighting the outdated support they receive. Hair care and skincare, essential components of black identity, have been overlooked for far too long, impacting the well-being of care-experienced young people. The "Replenish" boxes serve as an innovative solution, boosting the cultural competence of those involved in Corporate Parenting. These boxes not only meet practical needs but also facilitate discussions around race, making it a proactive step toward bridging uncomfortable gaps in understanding.

We caught up with the Founders of Replenish Culture CIC to gain insight into how their initiative is impacting the fostering landscape and supporting carers, children, and professionals to talk about identity and race.

Start your day to count your blessings and be grateful on the things you already have.

BFCA: Thank you for meeting with us, can you share some success or notable impacts that Replenish Culture has had on the lives of black children and mixed heritage children in foster care and their caregivers?

Replenish Culture: Absolutely. We've received heartfelt feedback from foster carers who express feeling better supported in meeting the specific needs of black and mixed-heritage children after receiving a "Replenish Culture" box. It's been truly rewarding to witness the positive impact on caregivers. We've been touched by the responses from careexperienced young people who emphasised that these boxes would have been a tremendous support during their time in care. It reinforces our belief in the significance of what we're doing.

BFCA: It's evident that your work extends beyond the tangible products. Can you tell us about the impact on professionals?

Replenish Culture: Certainly. Professionals engaging in our training have shared that they feel more confident discussing race with foster carers. This ripple effect within the professional sphere is essential for fostering a deeper understanding of cultural nuances.

BFCA: Moving forward, how does Replenish Culture envision its role in the broader landscape of foster care, and what long-term goals does the organisation have for positively influencing the sector?

Replenish Culture: At "Replenish Culture," our vision extends beyond the immediate impact. We aim to create services that understand and intentionally meet the needs of the global majority of children. While our primary focus is on children's services, we believe our work can ripple into other crucial systems such as education, policing, and healthcare.

BFCA: That's ambitious and necessary. Can you elaborate on the proactive approach you mentioned regarding the intersectionality of care experience and black/mixed heritage?

Replenish Culture: Absolutely. The intersectionality demands a proactive approach, especially with foster carers caring for black and mixed-heritage children. It's vital that efforts are intentional in supporting positive selfesteem for these children, addressing their unique needs.

BFCA: Insightful. Can you share some ongoing initiatives or projects that Replenish Culture is currently working on, and how do these align with the organisation's overall mission and vision?

Replenish Culture: Recently, we've introduced packing events for corporate organisations. This allows colleagues in the corporate world to build personalised "Replenish Culture" boxes and write affirming messages to children in care. It aligns perfectly with our vision of creating a society where black and mixed-heritage children feel confident, beautiful, and understood. Importantly, it extends this crucial conversation to settings where it's equally needed

BFCA: That's a unique and impactful initiative. How can individuals, communities, or other organisations contribute to or support the mission of Replenish Culture?

Replenish Culture: We welcome donations, which enable us to continue our work, producing more boxes and developing new content. Additionally, we're eager to recruit new volunteers to support our continued growth. Organisations can contribute by booking a packing event or a training course. If anyone wants to place an order for the boxes, please do get in touch.

BFCA: Thank you for sharing these insights. Replenish Culture is making a significant difference in the lives of children in care and their caregivers.

Replenish Culture: Thank you for having us. We're committed to fostering positive change and appreciate the opportunity to share our mission with your readers. "Replenish Culture" stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, empathy, and proactive initiatives. As it continues to carve a path towards a more inclusive and supportive foster care system, the impact of its work resonates far beyond the tangible products, shaping a future where every child can thrive and feel truly understood.