Our MissionTo inspire and encourage foster families
by meeting their needs |
Our VisionTo provide a haven for the foster care
community where needs are met, hearts are encouraged, and God's love is shown in a practical way |
Core Value
Blessed to be a blessing
Our History
The Twig began with a simple but powerful idea: children in foster care deserve dignity, choice, and encouragement. After adopting their youngest daughter, Ashlyn, from foster care, founders Lloyd and Dianne Weed felt called to do more for the families who continue to open their homes to children in need.
In May 2016, Dianne’s dream became a reality when The Twig opened its first storefront in Venice—a bright, welcoming space where children in foster care could shop for clothing at no cost in an environment created just for them. That first year, The Twig served 466 children and quickly became a trusted resource for foster families in the community.
Lloyd & Dianne Weed signed the lease for The Twig's original location
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The Twig's original boutique
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The Twig's original location
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As needs grew, The Twig expanded programs and partnerships. Shopping Days increased, a mobile unit began visiting group homes, TwigBox launched to support youth aging out of care, and community education efforts grew to equip more people to serve the foster care community.
The Twig's mobile unit used to bring The Twig to group homes in the area
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TwigBoxes for aged out youth
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In 2021, The Twig opened a second location in Bradenton, extending services across the Gulf Coast. Additional programs followed, including Twig Tribe, which supports family-made arrangements by offering connection, encouragement, and resources to caregivers providing kinship-style care.
The Twig's Bradenton location from 2021-2025
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Twig Tribe
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As the organization moved into its next chapter, The Twig remained committed to wise stewardship and long-term sustainability. In 2025, operations were consolidated into one fully staffed and strengthened location in Venice. This decision allows the organization to serve families with consistency, excellence, and stability. Children from both Sarasota and Manatee counties continue to be welcomed each month.
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Today, The Twig is led by Executive Director Nicole Britton and supported by four dedicated staff members, along with more than 200 volunteers who serve children in foster care with compassion and excellence.
In 2026, The Twig will celebrate 10 years of service—a decade of meeting the needs of youth in foster care and the families who love them.
With the continued support of the community, The Twig looks forward to the next ten years and beyond.
With the continued support of the community, The Twig looks forward to the next ten years and beyond.
