We offer free care packages for kids navigating the loss of a railroad-working parent. Each basket is thoughtfully tailored by age to offer love, comfort, and a gentle reminder: you’re not alone.
Comfort & connection for children who’ve lost a railroad-working parent.
We offer free care packages for kids navigating the loss of a railroad-working parent. Each basket is thoughtfully tailored by age to offer love, comfort, and a gentle reminder: you’re not alone.
Ages 0–2: Little Caboose Basket
Focus: Sensory comfort, bonding, and gentle care.
Railroad-themed snuggle blanket, Soft board book (“I Love You, Train!”), Plush train rattle or sensory toy, Soothing nightlight, “My Railroad Family” photo frame, Caregiver grief resource card.
Focus: Play, expression, and emotional reassurance –
Wooden toy train, Train-themed coloring book + crayons, Soft plush comfort item, “You Are Loved” picture book, Nighttime glow star, Parent tips for grief conversations.
Focus: Memory-keeping, routine, and self-expression
Railroad journal or memory book, Conductors’ cap or train socks, Craft set or buildable train kit, “Missing You” storybook, Calming worry stone, Mini train whistle, Grief toolkit for parents.
Ages 10–12: The Switchyard Basket
Focus: Coping tools, identity, and creative outlets
Guided journal or grief workbook, Train-themed fidget toy, Slippers or cozy blanket, Mini LED lantern, “This One’s for My Dad” keepsake card, Railroad sticker pack, QR code for age-appropriate grief support sites.
Focus: Resilience, safe expression, and legacy
Blank leather-style journal, Music playlist card + earbuds, Railroad trucker hat or hoodie (custom pick), Grief & identity zine, Affirmation cards, “My Parent Was a Railroader” legacy patch, Private grief support group invite (optional)
Focus: Transition, connection, and honoring legacy
Personalized letter from Cody Ron Foundation, Memory box or photo album,m Railroad keychain or pin, Self-care kit (tea, candle, journal), Resource guide for young adult grief, “Tracks of Love” event invite, Option to mentor younger grievers.
How Your Donation Helps –
Every dollar you give goes directly toward creating and delivering Railroad Roots baskets for grieving children of railroad workers. Whether it’s a snuggly blanket for a toddler or a journal for a teen processing loss, your donation offers comfort, connection, and hope in a time of heartbreak. You’re helping us say: “You’re not forgotten. You’re part of our railroad family.”
About the Baskets –
Railroad Roots baskets are carefully designed by age group to support children who have lost a railroad-working parent. Each one is filled with items that soothe, inspire, and honor the legacy of their loved one – because every child deserves to feel remembered, supported, and seen on their journey through grief.
The Cody Ron Foundation 