Why Self-Esteem Matters for Youth in Foster Care

Treehouse Store Celebrates Boost Self Esteem Month

Of all the ways we humans developmentally find and refine ourselves, it tends to start with outside things—the books we read, the clothes we pick, the hobbies and interests we explore. It’s not shallow; it’s just the building blocks for identifying and growing into a version of ourselves we like. Yet youth who’ve experienced foster care don’t always get the luxury of opportunity—something the Treehouse Store is trying to change.

Treehouse Celebrates Boost Your Self-Esteem Month

February is Boost Your Self-Esteem Month, and as we all know, soft skills are actually the hardest-working skills in our toolbelt. Liking yourself lays a solid foundation to learn, grow, and never give up on yourself. A person who believes they matter is going to advocate for themselves, not hold themselves back because they’re afraid of making a fuss or getting in trouble. A person who sees their worth is going to trust in and grow their natural-born talents, not dim their own light trying to change themselves.

Not convinced clothing or personal effects are a big deal? Consider how you feel when you don’t like your outfit for the day or the flood of relief and comfort when you return home from a long trip; however mild, the self-consciousness and uneasiness of clothing and unfamiliar environments weigh on everyone cognitively, even mature adults. Many youth experiencing foster care during their formative years are met with narrowed choice and chance to fully explore who they are and who they could be. The Treehouse Store (and the Just-in-Time Funding program) aims to meet every young person’s fundamental need to explore and choose for themselves.

Story from the Store

“A teen came in for a holiday shopping appointment. In addition to a cartful of warm clothing, they found a volleyball and an art kit. The teen mentioned that she loves art and wants to join her high school volleyball team. She was very excited about her shopping finds!”

How the Treehouse Store Works

The Treehouse Store provides clothing, books, toys, accessories, and more to youth in foster care statewide for free. Youth between 0 and 21 years can shop in the physical store or online up to three times a year. So far this program year, shopping trips to the Treehouse Store are averaging about 23 items per visit. In the previous 2023–2024 program year, the Treehouse Store served more than 2,200 youth across Washington state and distributed more than 100,000 items. That included a 37% increase in online orders!

It’s a big job to keep the Treehouse Store stocked and organized with new and like-new items. But the store staff and dedicated volunteers manage to stay on top of sorting donations, inventory needs, and providing customers with a good shopping experience. Thanks to community support in 2017, the Treehouse Store (then called the Wearhouse) has an inviting layout and merchandising—important elements in giving Treehouse customers dignity in shopping.

Story from the Store

“A child about 7 or 8 years old was happy about the items they got, and extra excited about the bike and ring they chose. They seemed at ease in the store space, wandering around and dancing to the music. While their items were being rung up, they came over to me and said, ‘I am definitely coming back here!’”

Partnering with the Treehouse Store

The Treehouse Store relies on donations from the community to keep the store stocked with seasonal, trendy clothing and other goods waiting for a young Washingtonian to pick or order online. Since 2023, Seattle-based tomboyx has been a steadfast partner.

“Clothing is more than just fabric—it’s a source of confidence, identity, and self-expression. For youth in foster care, having access to quality clothing that aligns with their gender identity and personal style can mean the difference between feeling invisible and feeling seen. That’s why we at tomboyx proudly donate to Treehouse, to help ensure every young person has the opportunity to choose what makes them feel their best. Together, our community can uplift these youth by supporting Treehouse and empowering them with dignity, self-worth, and the freedom to express who they truly are.” – Katrine Fritz, Chief Merchant at tomboyx

Want to contribute to Treehouse’s mission? You can donate or buy items from our Dreamlist.