Oklahoma Human Services announce 'Holiday Hope' for families

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - Oklahoma Human Services is looking to bring the magic of the season during the holiday's to children and families involved with the child welfare system.

“Children 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.”

According to Oklahoma Human Services, no matter the circumstances the holidays are a special time. The agency says it collaborates with a host of community organizations across the state to bring hope during the holidays to children and families involved with the child welfare system. Oklahomans looking to get involved can through shopping for gifts on a child’s wish list, donating money/funds for gifts, or donating gift cards for the children who request them.

“We are incredibly grateful for our coordinating community partners, donors and organizations who consistently show up for our children and families, offering hope each holiday season,"
said Oklahoma Human Services Director, Jeffrey Cartmell. “No donation or act of kindness is too small to make a difference in the lives of the families we serve.”

Participants interested in donating, volunteering or adding their organization to Holiday Hope efforts can email HolidayHope@okdhs.org.

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.