GREENSBORO, N.C. -- There are several ways to support the foster care system during the holidays.
- There are around 500 children in the foster care system in Guilford County alone
- The fundraiser started in 2005 and relies solely on donations to give children in the system gifts on Christmas
- Toys are great for younger kids and gift cards are what teens want
It's a tough time for kids away from their home, families, and friends. There are around 500 children in the foster care system in Guilford County alone.
"It's usually a time that families get together. They're not able to be a part of the celebrations that their families have," Laurie Jones said. She works for the Guilford County Department of Social Services.
She is part of the group putting on Celebrate the Children. The fundraiser started in 2005 and relies solely on donations to give children in the system gifts on Christmas.
They always need monetary donations. Toys are great for younger kids and gift cards are what teens want. "That way they're able to go out and purchase exactly whatever they desire and their wishes," Jones said.
If people want a more personal donation, they can sponsor a child and buy from the list they make.
Amanda Jens of the Guilford County Guardian ad Litem says they always need volunteers to advocate for children. They currently have over 190 children that need a GAL.
Volunteers sign up for two year stints, and are paired with a child in the foster care system. They advocate for the child's needs, and help represent them in court and other areas.
Jens says the program has long term benefits for volunteers and kids.
"Having someone show up consistently over a period of time, just for them is a tremendous gift," Jens said.
Contact information for the Celebrate the Children fundraiser can be found here.
More information about the Guardian ad Litem program can be found here.