Tri-Cities teen turns painful childhood memory into compassion mission

When Rhylinn Simmons arrived at her third foster home in Portland, she carried her belongings in a cardboard box.

She was just 6.

Now 13 and adopted into a loving family, Rhylinn has turned a painful childhood memory into a mission of compassion.

After moving with her family from Portland to Kennewick three years ago, she launched her project, Dignity Duffles, with the goal of delivering hundreds of duffle bags filled with comfort items to children entering foster care, so no child has to feel the fear and uncertainty she once did.

Alongside her community work, Rhylinn is the 2025 Ultimate International Miss Evergreen State Preteen. Although she couldn’t attend her state pageant, she accepted an alternate state title and will still proudly represent Washington at the international competition at the end of August.

“I want foster kids to feel safe and welcomed in their new homes,” Simmons said. “Dignity Duffles are filled with necessities every kid needs, especially things they might not be able to bring with them or afford when they move.”

Dignity Duffles

Each bag includes essentials like pajamas, toiletries, books, stuffed animals and Rhylinn’s favorite item, a handwritten note.

“I’m going to write a note for every duffle,” she said. “I want kids to know that someone out there cares, and that they’re not alone. I’ve been there, and I understand.”

Rhylinn’s own journey through foster care began when she was three.

“I didn’t really know what was happening, I just remember moving a lot,” she said. “But when I got to my forever family at six years old, I finally felt safe.”

That sense of security has empowered Rhylinn to give back and now with the help of her family, she is building a movement. The Simmons family has already created an Amazon Wish List of supplies, with community members sending 20 or more packages per day to their doorstep.

“So far we’ve collected over 40 duffle bags,” said Katie Simmons, Rhylinn’s mom. “We’re also receiving stuffed animals, hygiene items, and other essentials.”

The project is already gaining traction. Rhylinn was recently featured on local news stations and her story continues to spread in part thanks to her involvement in the Ultimate International Miss pageant. Contestants are encouraged to create platforms with meaning social impact and Rhylinn is using hers to advocate for dignity and care for foster youth.

“Pageants have helped me build confidence and share my story with more people,” she said. “But I would be doing this even if I wasn’t competing. It’s important to me either way.”

What next?

The family is currently in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, which will allow them to accept donations from businesses and expand their reach.

“We’ve already had interest from some potential sponsors,” Katie said. “Getting our nonprofit status will really help us take the next step.”

For Katie, watching her daughter grow into a confident and compassionate young leader has been a powerful experience.

“When Rhylinn first came to us, she was very quiet — she didn’t talk to people or make eye contact,” she said. “It’s amazing to see who she’s becoming and how she’s using her voice to help others.”

Community members who want to support Dignity Duffles can donate directly through the Amazon Wish List, which is updated regularly as items are purchased. Each package can indicate a note from the sender and the family plans to offer thank yous and social media shoutouts in return.

Rhylinn’s goal is to complete 300 duffles by the end of the year, each one a symbol of kindness, dignity and hope.

To donate to Dignity Duffles, visit the Simmons family’s Amazon Wish List here.

For updates on the project or to offer support, contact Katie Simmons at katie.simmons82016@gmail.com or 253-370-7062.

This story was originally published August 4, 2025 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Tri-Cities teen turns painful childhood memory into compassion mission."