HARFORD COUNTY, Md. — The spirit of giving is vibrant in Harford County, thanks to the community initiative known as Fostering Christmas.
Since its inception in 2015, this organization has been dedicated to fulfilling Christmas wishes for foster children in the area.
For the past four years, Chloe Anderson and her mother have been leading this heartfelt effort.
Community Group in Harford County Makes Christmas Dreams Come True for Foster Kids and Vulnerable Adults
Harford County initiative brings Christmas cheer to foster kids and vulnerable adults
“For many of these children living in foster care, group homes, or independent living situations, this may be the first time they can ask for something they truly desire and receive a gift they’ve never had before,” Anderson explained.
The group collaborates closely with the county’s department of social services to gather Christmas wish lists.
This year, however, there’s a new focus: they are also collecting wish lists from vulnerable adults who have the state as their guardian.
“We inquire about their favorite items, colors, stores, and similar preferences,” she added.
The collection of wish lists begins at the end of August each year.
To date, they have received requests from 118 children and 15 vulnerable adults.
Anderson shared with WMAR-2 News that this number represents a significant increase from last year.
“We see a consistent rise each year, and we often recognize familiar names, which certainly tugs at the heartstrings,” she remarked.
Once the lists are compiled, volunteers have the option to fulfill the requests or sponsor items from Amazon.
Individuals can drop off their generously purchased gifts at either NVS Salon and Spa in Bel Air or at Makers of Maryland in White Marsh.
According to Anderson, despite the challenges that come with organizing this initiative every year, she wouldn’t change it for the world.
“Witnessing everything come together is undoubtedly my favorite moment. The atmosphere can be chaotic, with everyone bustling about and sometimes raising their voices, but seeing all the gifts ready for social services and the gratitude expressed by social workers for our efforts is truly rewarding,” she reflected.
The group has planned a wrapping party for December 12, where participants can help wrap gifts for distribution.
To find out how you can contribute to making the holidays brighter for someone in need, head here.
