Spreading Holiday Joy: Supporting Caregivers and Children Across SW Washington

This December, our office was filled with joy, gratitude, and the true spirit of the season as parents and caregivers joined us for our annual Holiday Toy Giveaway. Held December 12–14, this special event was designed to support caregivers across Clark and Cowlitz Counties who work tirelessly to provide safe, loving homes for children and youth affected by foster care. Thanks to Cowlitz and Clark County Child Advocates for partnering with us to serve even more families in our community. Collaboration like this strengthens our collective impact and helps ensure no caregiver or family feels alone, especially those who are on the brink of becoming involved with child welfare, families navigating a trial-return-home period, and youth who will be experiencing the holidays from juvenile detention.  

Thanks to the generosity of our community, we offered an incredible selection of toys, gifts, and stocking stuffers for children and youth ages 0–18, including those in Extended Foster Care. Caregivers were invited to personally shop our collection, allowing them to choose gifts that best reflected each child’s interests, personality, and developmental stage. From books and games to creative toys and cozy surprises, our space was transformed into a place of excitement and hope.

Over the course of three days, caregivers selected gifts for over 420 children, ensuring each child could experience the joy of the holidays through thoughtful, meaningful presents chosen just for them. This personalized approach is at the heart of why this event matters—because every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and celebrated.

We are deeply grateful to our donors from across the region whose generosity made this event possible. Your support filled our shelves and, more importantly, brought smiles to hundreds of children and relief to caregivers during a season that can often feel overwhelming.

As we reflect on this meaningful weekend, we are reminded that community support can make a lasting difference. Thank you to everyone who donated, partnered, volunteered, and believed in making the holidays brighter for vulnerable children and families. Together, we helped create moments of joy that will be remembered long after the season ends.