HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. -- Helping a foster child with a gift this holiday season could make all the difference, according to advocates with Hillsborough County's Guardian ad Litem program.
As a lifelong advocate of children in the foster care system, Synthia Fairman says this time of year can be especially hard for them.
"They're angry, they're confused, they're lonely, they're lost," Fairman said.
Those with Hillsborough County's Guardian ad Litem program say foster children and their foster families need special support around the holidays.
"It's not being with their family, maybe not being with their siblings," said Tabitha Lambert, Circuit Director for Hillsborough County Guardian ad Litem Program."They're spending their first holiday away from what they know."
Voices for Children is hosting a Virtual Toy Drive with several gift options at several price points that directly benefit children in Hillsborough County's foster care system.
Volunteers are asking people to donate through this Amazon Wish List or through the Voices for Children website.
"That way we do make sure that our kids do have something for Christmas," Lambert said. "I think there's a lot of unknowns for our kids during the holidays.
As a former foster child herself, Fairman said every toy and every dollar truly does make a difference.
"They're forever thankful and grateful," she said.
Would you like to go one step further in helping a foster child in need? Become a guardian ad litem. It's simply becoming an advocate for a child as they navigate the foster care system and the courts.
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