about us.
We bring joy to children living in some of the poorest conditions in the world. We inspire hope.
We believe we can inspire hope and empower children to reach their maximum potential.
Our mission is to bring joy and education to underserved children around the world. We deliver toys and school supplies to children living in the world’s poorest conditions.
Our vision is to empower children to obtain an education, so they can break the cycle of poverty and lead joyful lives. Africa has the world’s highest rates of educational exclusion. By building schools and giving children educational materials, we can change a child’s trajectory.
Our Impact
300+
NUMBER OF CHILDREN SUPPORTED
500+
TOYS, BOOKS, & GAMES DELIVERED
100%
100% OF EVERY DONATION IS USED TO SUPPORT CHILDREN
Our Story
Suitcase of Joy started with one girl's dream to bring joy and hope to children who needed them the most. While completing her MBA, she traveled to Africa and South America and was moved by the poverty she observed. One day, she realized she could bring toys to the children she met in her travels. Within a few weeks, she raised donations to fill two suitcases with toys, books, clothing, and soccer balls that she delivered to children in remote villages and slums in Africa. The joy spread was contagious, and the idea for SOJ was born: we can change the world, one suitcase and one child at a time.
What We Do.
We deliver joy to children through toys and games, increase their access to educational materials, build schools to increase educational inclusion, and inspire hope for a better future. Our goal is to enable children to succeed, regardless of their birthplace or economic status. Every child deserves this opportunity.
Deliver Toys.
We bring toys, games, stuffed animals, soccer balls, and more to the poorest places in the world. We visit children living in remote villages, slums, and orphanages to bring them joy and give them the right to be a child.
Build Schools.
We plan to build schools in remote villages in Africa to enable every child to stay in school. Africa has the highest rates of educational exclusion in the world. We believe children, including girls, should finish their education.
Educate Families.
We deliver books, pencils, crayons, school supplies, and other essentials to ensure that the children we support have access to educational materials. We lead workshops to teach children and families professional and life skills.
Inspire Hope.
We inspire hope for children living in the poorest conditions in the world. When we bring joy and create opportunities for these children, we remind them of their worth and empower them to achieve their maximum potential.