ROGERS, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – In 2017, there were 3,982 total reports of child abuse and neglect in North Dakota.

And those are the ones that are reported as others continue to face neglect and abuse.

Project Ignite Light Founder Pebbles Thompson says in 2008, she saw the need of those children in reported abuse and neglect situations.

Thompson says these backpacks, affectionately called “Bags of Hope”, contain everything from fleece tie blankets to pajamas, toothbrushes, books, flashlights, shampoo, and more.

The organization has quickly grown after word of the program spread through the state of North Dakota. Thompson says they now serve North Dakota along with South Dakota and Minnesota.
Amanda Geisler, Vice President of Growth and Development, says it’s because of all the support from other organizations and communities that they’re able to serve so many children.

Geisler says in their 11 years of operation, they’ve helped thousands of children.

Thompson says because costs are always rising, it’s important that organizations continue to help. First Community Credit Union is currently holding a pajama drive for Project Ignite Light. Individuals are encouraged to donate new, two-piece pajamas in sizes newborn through 18 years of age.

For more information on Project Ignite Light or the current FCCU pajama drive, visit ignitelight.org.

Listen to more about Project Ignite Light with Founder Pebbles Thompson and Amanda Geisler in the Let’s Talk About It below: