Donations Needed by December 18 to Help Area Foster Kids Have a Happy Holiday
Family Health & Support Network (FHSN), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing safe, loving homes for foster children in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, is asking the community to get involved and donate an unwrapped toy or gift card, make an in-kind donation or offer a financial contribution this holiday season. Gift cards for teens are particularly needed, and any level of support will make a positive impact on the lives of the children, youth, and families served by FHSN.Toys may be dropped off at FHSN, located at 74-410 Highway 111, Suite D in Palm Desert, no later than December 18. Office hours are Monday – Thursday from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM and Friday from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
FHSN will distribute these gifts and donations at its 11th Annual Children & Families Christmas Program on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at 6 pm. This private holiday celebration is for children, youth, and families residing in the California Foster Care System who are placed in the care of FHSN, as well as for children and families in impoverished communities in the Desert region. Volunteer Elves are needed.
“Children in foster care are separated from family, and siblings may be placed in different foster homes, causing additional stress, anxiety and loneliness during the holidays,” explained Sandra Austin, Executive Director of FHSN. “We want to do whatever we can to alleviate their sadness and lift their spirits by providing them with an evening of dinner, entertainment, and gift giving with the experience of Santa Claus. The goal is to provide our children with one special night where they are celebrated, empowered, and given a measure of hope.”
The mission of FHSN is to help high-risk children in foster care (aged 0 – 21) and the underserved children of the Desert region develop into healthy and successful adults through a licensed Foster Care program. The organization also seeks to help rebuild underserved, impoverished communities by providing comprehensive programming. FHSN accomplishes this through the provision of safe and supportive certified homes and families; quality programs and services for children (and their birth families where appropriate); a professional, well-trained and caring staff; and a community atmosphere that encourages teamwork and cooperation among youth, families, staff and volunteers.
For more information about FHSN’s Children & Families Christmas Program and to volunteer or make a donation, please call 760-340-2442 or visit fshnet.org.