Oklahoma Human Services asks the community to bring Holiday Hope to children and families involved with the child welfare system
OKLAHOMA CITY (Nov. 2, 2023) -- Each year, Oklahoma Human Services collaborates with a host of community organizations across the state to bring hope and a happy holiday season for children and families involved with the child welfare system. The holidays are a special time full of wonder and joy, and it’s important that children feel the magic of the season no matter their circumstances.
“Kids in the foster care system sometimes wonder if Santa will be able to find them,” said Tricia Howell, Director of Child Welfare Services. “Holiday Hope represents the dreams and wishes of Oklahoma’s children being heard and realized, and the community’s resolution to support their neighbors in even bigger ways in the new year. We are grateful for the many ways Oklahomans step forward to support children in foster care and their families.”
Oklahomans interested in donating or volunteering to Holiday Hope efforts this year may browse an interactive map to find opportunities in their home county or anywhere in the state. Support can be shown in many ways - shop for gifts on a child’s wish list, donate money/funds for gifts or donate gift cards for children or youth who request them. Donors who are unable to find the information they are seeking or who want other assistance should email HolidayHope@okdhs.org.
The Holiday Hope program represents an opportunity for Oklahomans to ensure children involved with the child welfare system have their hopes and dreams heard and realized. The magic of Holiday Hope would not be possible without the tireless work and support of community partners who come alongside Oklahoma Human Services and foster families across the state.
“We are incredibly grateful for the efforts of our coordinating community partners, donors and organizations who continue to generously support our children and families and offer hope during the holiday season," expressed Secretary of Human Services and Oklahoma Human Services Director, Dr. Deborah Shropshire. “If you’ve ever wanted to get involved with foster care, we encourage you to start today and find a place where you can lend your talents. We’ll help you every step of the way.”
Oklahoma’s children and families need support all year long, and Oklahoma Human Services needs more families to step forward to foster local children in state custody, particularly those in large sibling groups, teens and children with behavioral health needs. Families interested in learning more about foster care or applying to become a certified foster family may visit okfosters.org or call 1-800-376-9729.
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