Page 18 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2023

COAST NOTE
A Very Colorful Christmas
story by Cherie Ward
State officials are asking for help planning and fulfilling a Christmas party for 100 teenagers currently in foster care to redefine hope for the kids during the holiday season.
The Mississippi Department of Child Protective Services is looking for donations of gift cards for ages 12 to 19
for restaurants, clothing, beauty and hygiene items, and electronics. The agency also needs volunteers and food item donations such as pizza, chips, candy, and other snack food.
Commissioner Andrea Sanders said this year’s theme is “A Very Colorful Christmas” and explained the population of children and teenagers in foster care has tripled since the
financial difficulties for families, which raises safety and risk concerns for their children. Post-pandemic research has also revealed an increase in the number of homeless teenagers.
“Normally, the majority of organizations and businesses donate to the younger children,” Sanders said. “Which leaves out the 12 to 19 age group. This year, we would like to focus and invest in this age group’s future by providing hope, understanding, and love, all with your help.”
She added the agency’s overall goal is to keep children safe and thriving by strengthening families, preventing child abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and promoting child and family well-being and permanent family connections.
Email Director of Communications Sharbrea Smith at Sharbrea.Smith@mdcps.ms.gov if you or your business or organization can help.
beginning of the especially in
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COVID-19 pandemic, Harrison County.
the effects of the have increased
18 | December 2023
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
Mississippi Department of Child Protective Services
www.mdcps.ms.gov