Kids Matter International
About Kids Matter International
Kids Matter International keeps its focus on school-age children living in poverty, and it does that in a very direct way: new clothes, shoes, backpacks, books, and literacy support. The draw here is how practical the help is. A child can walk away from an Around The Block event with basics that matter for school and daily life, then keep building confidence through reading help and homework support. For donors, it is a chance to fund something concrete and child-centered, not abstract.
What stands out is the specificity. Kids Matter International keeps its work centered on tangible support for children, especially through Around The Block, where volunteers and partner stores help kids shop for the basics they need. The organization also stays close to literacy, with Ramp Up Reading and Homework Buddy giving children steady support around reading and school success.
Programs
The concrete work this nonprofit runs. Each program may later become a fundable project.
Around The Block
Provides children living in poverty with new clothes, shoes, backpacks, and a book through volunteer-supported shopping events with partner stores.
Ramp Up Reading Literacy Program
Summer and back-to-school literacy program where volunteers read aloud with children and distribute books they get to keep.
Homework Buddy Program
Supports elementary-age students with homework help, with emphasis on reading and comprehension skills.
Lone Star Artist Award and Youth Art in the Square
Annual youth art contest sponsorship with Art in the Square and State Representative Giovanni Capriglione, with the grand prize winner receiving Capitol display, hotel accommodations, and a Capitol tour.
Support for Victory Christian Center in Tanzania
Funding support for a program that provides food, clothing, and school education to children.
About this work
In their own words — what they do, who it reaches, and what your dollars actually fund.
Mission
Helping children in need through programs that empower them and enhance their lives.
Who they serve
School-age children living at or below the poverty level, including children from families earning less than $25,000 per year.
Their impact
- Around The Block has served over 20,900 children since 2006.
- Around The Block has distributed over 187,000 new books.
- Around The Block has distributed 32,350 new backpacks.
- Around The Block has distributed over 19,150 new shoes.
- HDA Truck Pride raised $35,000 for Kids Matter International, supporting clothing for an additional 350 children in 2024 and $122,500 in new merchandise.
How your donation helps
- New clothing and shoes for children
- Backpacks and books for Around The Block
- Literacy and educational programs
- Support for children in Tanzania
- Office equipment and supplies
Our story
In 2005, a group of six men from North Tarrant County, Texas, started supporting Houses of Hope International after visiting orphanages in Guatemala and Honduras. By 2006, they formed a local chapter, and in 2007 the organization became Kids Matter International. Over time, its focus shifted from international orphanage support to programs serving under-served children in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
Need help?
How someone in need can access Kids Matter International’s services.
Families earning less than $25,000 annually can be referred by school counselors at Title 1 schools, women’s shelters, orphanages, and foster care agencies for the Around The Block clothing program. Homework Buddy supports first through fourth graders in the Colleyville/Grapevine Independent School District who need help with homework, reading, and comprehension.
Stories
The people behind the work.
In their words
"When asked how many kids I have, I say, '1,500!'"
"Our goal is to give these kids a hand-up rather than a hand-down."
"It is my profound honor to serve as Chairman of the Board for Kids Matter International."
Events
Around The Block shopping events
annually in NovemberAnnual shopping events where children receive vouchers for clothes, shoes, backpacks, and books with help from volunteers.
Kids Matter Charity Ball / Snow Ball
annualFundraising gala supporting the clothing and literacy programs.
All That Sizzles Talent Show
annualA fundraising talent show that supports Kids Matter programs.
Eagles Challenge Hole-in-One Golf Tournament
annualA golf fundraiser supporting programs for children in need.
Ways to help
Concrete needs and volunteer roles Kids Matter International has shared.
Current needs
- Office equipment and supplies
Volunteer opportunities
- Shop with children and families at Around The Block events
- Read aloud with children during Ramp Up Reading
- Serve as a Homework Buddy for elementary students
- Help with event setup, closeout, fundraising, and administrative support
Recognition & press
Awards & recognition
- Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency, 8th consecutive year
Press & mentions
Partners & funders
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this nonprofit and how its work happens.
How do children get referred to Around The Block?
Children are referred by school counselors at Title 1 schools, women’s shelters, orphanages, and foster care agencies. Families earning less than $25,000 a year can also qualify.
What does a child receive at an Around The Block event?
A child gets a $100 shopping voucher and, with volunteer help, can choose new clothes, shoes, backpacks, and a book.
How does Ramp Up Reading work?
Volunteers read aloud with children during the summer and back-to-school season, and each child takes home a book.
Who does Homework Buddy serve?
Homework Buddy supports first through fourth graders in the Colleyville/Grapevine Independent School District who need help with homework, reading, and comprehension.
Similar nonprofits
Other international relief nonprofits in TX.