Children's Shelter Supply Checklist: Essentials for Safety, Health, and Development

A children's shelter must meet licensing standards (state-dependent) and provide trauma-informed care. This checklist organizes supplies by functional domain.

1. Personal Care & Hygiene

• Toothbrushes, fluoride toothpaste, shampoo, body wash, lotion, deodorant (age-appropriate).
• Towels, washcloths, hairbrushes, lice combs.
• Underwear, socks, pajamas, seasonal clothing (sizes 2T–Adult), shoes.
• Diapers, wipes, pull-ups, feminine hygiene (pads/tampons/cups).

2. Sleep & Bedding

• Cribs (JPMA certified), twin beds, bunk beds (with rails).
• Mattresses (vinyl-covered, bedbug-resistant), waterproof covers.
• Sheets, blankets, pillows, pillowcases — 2 sets/child.

3. Nutrition & Food Service

• Commercial kitchen equipment (NSF), 3-compartment sink, refrigeration, dry storage.
• USDA-compliant menus; special diets (allergies, medical, cultural/religious).
• Formula, bottles, nipples, baby food, high chairs.

4. Health & Safety

• First aid kits (OSHA + pediatric), AED, epinephrine auto-injectors (stock), albuterol nebulizer.
• Lockable med cart, sharps containers, biohazard bags.
• Thermometers, BP cuffs (pediatric/adult), pulse ox, glucometer.
• Cleaning: EPA-registered disinfectants, color-coded microfiber, PPE.

5. Education & Development

• Books (multilingual, diverse, leveled), school supplies, computers/tablets with parental controls, Wi-Fi.
• Arts/crafts, STEM kits, musical instruments, sensory materials.
• Age-appropriate toys, gross motor equipment (climber, balls, bikes).

6. Recreation & Outdoor

• Fenced play area, shade structure, impact-absorbing surface.
• Board games, sports equipment, dramatic play props.

7. Administrative & Operational

• Intake/assessment forms, EHR access, confidentiality locks.
• Security: cameras, badge access, visitor log, emergency drills.
• Laundry: commercial washer/dryer, detergent, sanitizer cycle.

Coordinate with child welfare, health department, and community partners for donations and compliance.