Partnership for Strong Families launches holiday toy and gift drive

Press release from the Partnership for Strong Families

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – As the holiday season approaches, Partnership for Strong Families is working to ensure that local children and youth involved in the child welfare system experience the wonder of the season. For children involved in the child welfare system, the holidays are a difficult time due to past abuse and neglect and the instability of out-of-home care. Partnership for Strong Families is committed to uplifting and nurturing vulnerable youth through their holiday tradition called Wish Upon a Star. 

This festive initiative matches caring community members with the personalized wish lists of children in Partnership’s care. From toys and games to clothing and special requests, each gift shows youth that they are valued and cherished.

Family Care Counselor Shania Gainey thinks fondly on how meaningful Wish Upon a Star is to the children she serves. “It reminds our kids that they are not forgotten and that their communities care about them,” she explained.

This annual toy and gift drive is only possible through the generosity of caring individuals, businesses, and organizations that come together to fulfill the wishes of children involved in the child welfare system. Organizations such as James Moore & Co., Santa Fe College, Give Back for Impact, Northeast Florida State Hospital, and UF Health Pediatrics are just a few of the incredible sponsors helping bring holiday magic to life.

Star sponsor Mandy M. gathers her team at the University of Florida Office of Sponsored Programs to fulfill the wish lists of 30 children in care. “I was in foster care as a teen,” she recalls. ”I remember getting holiday gifts from my case manager and how impactful it was for me.”

Partnership for Strong Families is incredibly grateful for the continued support from the community. If you would like to make a difference during the season of giving, you can sponsor a child’s star wishes by visiting https://partnershipforstrongfamilies.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/wish-upon-a-star. If you prefer to donate directly to the initiative, please visit https://partnershipforstrongfamilies.networkforgood.com/projects/254426-wish-upon-a-star-holiday-toy-drive.