"Adopt a Family" gift-giving project reaches 230 Los Angeles foster children

The Children's Law Center sent out a release today with information about their "Adopt a Family" holiday program. Yes, the holidays are over, but it's not too early to start thinking about next season or other year-round needs for these kids.

LOS ANGELES - For many of the nearly 25,000 children in Los Angeles county's child welfare system, the holiday season can be less than joyful as resources are stretched and caregivers are unable to afford the 'extras' that so many of us take for granted.

Leslie Starr Heimov, Executive Director of the Children's Law Center of Los Angeles (CLC) which provides legal representation for abused and neglected children and youth under the jurisdiction of the dependency court, said that the organization created the successful "Adopt a Family" project in 2006 when CLC recognized the impact that having even a few gifts to open during the holidays can have upon a child in the foster care system.

"CLC is very proud of our 'Adopt a Family' project, which has grown exponentially each year since its inception. Even in these difficult economic times, the generosity we have seen through this project is truly inspiring - over 2,000 gifts were distributed. In this 2008 holiday season, the project has had more of an impact than ever, as so many families are struggling to afford basic necessities and were unable to purchase holiday gifts. The community stepped up and recognized that there is much we can do and even giving a little makes a real difference," stated Ms. Heimov.

In addition to gifts for foster children, the project identified that some of these children, along with their caregivers, were in need of food, blankets, and warm clothing. CLC and many donors provided these items as well as gift cards to grocery stores in order to assist the entire family along with the child or children CLC represents.

CLC continues to help needy children and families throughout the year. Community members may participate by purchasing gifts directly, by donating toys, clothing, books, baby care items, household items and gift cards, or by monetary donation. Donations may be designated to support CLC's core mission, Client Needs Fund, Emancipation Fund or Birthday Project fund. All donations are tax-deductible.

For more information, please see www.clcla.org/.