This June, a lemonade stand near you could be offering something sweeter than just a drink—the chance to support foster families and children in crisis.

The details

Nonprofit Foster Village—serving Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis and Williamson counties—has encouraged children to raise funds via lemonade stands in their neighborhoods every summer the last three years through a campaign called Growing the Village is Sweet.

This year, Foster Village officials have a goal to raise $40,000, which will provide therapeutic support and needed items, such as clothing, toys or bedding, to foster families and children.

“When kids are placed in a new foster home, generally, they're showing up with just the clothes on their back,” said Chrystal Smith, Foster Village founder and CEO.


She started the nonprofit in Austin after noticing a gap in needs being met based on her own experience as a foster parent.

Last year, in the Austin-area alone, the campaign raised about $30,000 from the stands and donations from local businesses. In the U.S., the campaign raised $100,000 in 2023.

Why it matters

Smith said the idea behind the lemonade stands is to give children in the community the opportunity to get involved in philanthropy.


“It’s this kids supporting kids idea,” she explained.
Families can reserve a lemonade stand kit with a $25 donation to Foster Village. The kit includes a T-shirt, lemonade mix, cups, straws, a tip sheet on explaining foster care, sunglasses and stickers. (Courtesy Foster Village)
Anyone who is interested can receive a lemonade kit from Foster Village, which includes lemonade mix and a tip sheet on how to discuss foster care with children. Churches are also encouraged to participate.

In Dripping Springs, businesses that are supporting the campaign this June include Abby Jane Bakeshop, Mazama Coffee Co., Playa Bowls and more.

For more information and a list of participating businesses, visit www.fostervillageaustin.org/lp/2024-growing-the-village-is-sweet.