Christmas for a child in foster care is a little more difficult and each year Clermont County Children’s Protective Services (CPS) conducts the ‘Community Toy Chest’ program to help the children in their care have a wonderful Christmas experience.

Last year approximately 350 children received gifts because of generous donations from the public and this year there are even more children to help.

As the holidays are quickly approaching, CPS is asking the public to consider sponsoring one or more of the children in their care again this year.

“All types of sponsors are accepted like, individuals, company sponsors, groups, or organizations,” said Sanna Gast, Clermont County Children’s Services and Community Toy Chest Coordinator. “If you’re feeling extra generous this holiday season, you can also sponsor families!”

Gast explains that there are many foster children placed with relatives and these families are often struggling, especially during the holidays.

The ages of children available for sponsorship range from birth to 18 years of age. Sponsors receive an ID number for each child (only first names are given due to confidentiality), their ages, sizes, and what they wish for or need. Wish list items typically include toys, games, and warm coats.

There are no limits on the amount of gifts or cost; however, if there is a sibling group being sponsored we will indicate provide the necessary information in order for sponsors to try and keep the gifts even in number.

Gast stated sponsors for teenagers are always in high demand and greatly appreciated because for most of them it is the only gift they receive all year.

“Many people tell us they don’t know what a teenager likes and I tell them gift cards to local stores and restaurants are always welcome.”

Gifts must be wrapped and marked with the number assigned to the child, then delivered to the CPS office located at 2400 Clermont Center Drive, Batavia, Ohio, 45103. If you would like to sponsor a child, but don’t have the time to shop, Community Toy Chest will accept checks. Check donations are used to purchase gifts for children who are not yet sponsored, or for those who come into county care later in the year.

If you are interested in sponsoring a child or family, please e-mail Sanna Gast at gasts@odjfs.state.oh.us or call (513) 732-7264 for more information.