Leather Apron Foundation Donates Remaining Funds to Oak Forest Foster Closet
The Leather Apron Foundation (LAF), a local nonprofit dedicated to fostering community engagement and support, announced its final donation of $11,000 to the Oak Forest Foster Closet.
Since its founding over eight years ago, the Leather Apron Foundation has bridged the gap between individuals, businesses, and families in need. Reflecting on the organization’s origins, founder Jonathan Kolmetz stated:
“When I started LAF, I noticed a decline in community connection. Neighbors weren’t coming together as they used to for schools or families in crisis. I wanted to create an organization that could connect those willing to help with those who needed it most, while also encouraging local businesses to engage in meaningful ways.”
Over the years, LAF has partnered with organizations like MANNA, St. Vincent de Paul, and various small businesses to provide food, clothing, financial assistance, and even physical infrastructure like wheelchair ramps and HVAC units for families in need.
In alignment with its mission, the Leather Apron Foundation’s remaining funds will be donated to the Oak Forest Foster Closet. This local nonprofit provides essential resources to foster, adoptive, and kinship families, helping children feel supported during difficult transitions. The $11,000 donation will help cover critical needs such as beds, shoes for older children, diapers, school uniforms, and storage costs for large items.
“The Oak Forest Foster Closet embodies the very values LAF was built on,” Kristi Kolmetz said. “Their tireless work and the community’s overwhelming support make them a natural choice for this donation. We’re proud to contribute to their mission and ensure these funds continue to serve our neighbors.”
Nicole Aboudaher, founder of the Oak Forest Foster Closet, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the donation. “It’s so kind and makes us feel so seen and cared for. We promise to continue the work here in Oak Forest that LAF started eight years ago. This money will help us tremendously with supporting kids in need in our community,” said Aboudaher.
This final donation marks the culmination of LAF’s work while celebrating the thriving network of community support now in place in Oak Forest and the Greater Heights area.
About the Leather Apron Foundation
The Leather Apron Foundation (LAF) was founded in Oak Forest, TX, with the mission of connecting individuals and businesses to those in need through meaningful community service. Over its eight years of operation, LAF provided vital resources, financial support, and volunteer coordination to address the needs of families, schools, and organizations in the Oak Forest area.
About the Oak Forest Foster Closet
The Oak Forest Foster Closet is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Oak Forest, TX, dedicated to supporting foster, adoptive, and kinship families. The organization provides essential items such as clothing, bedding, school supplies, and large equipment to ensure children in foster care feel cared for and supported. By working with the community, the Oak Forest Foster Closet creates a network of love and care for vulnerable children.
Photos courtesy of LAF