Gingerbread Tree Program

For most people, the Holiday Season is full of hope and happiness, but for children in foster care and group homes, the holidays can feel sad and lonely.  In an effort to make the holidays a little brighter for children who cannot be with their families, the New Hanover County Department of Social Services, New Hanover County Department of Human Resources and the Guardian Ad Litem Association have partnered to bring gifts and good cheer to these very special children. During the month October, children in foster care will create wish lists which are then attached to a Gingerbread boy or girl and placed on one of three Christmas trees. The children are primarily under the age of 18 years, however, we have a few children who have remained in DSS custody until the age of 21 so that they can pursue educational or vocational goals.  People from the community then select the gingerbread boys and girls from the tree and purchase gifts for the children. Each lists identifies the child’s sex and age, and of course their wishes. Unwrapped gifts are returned to the agency and delivered for the children.  We also accept financial donations so that we can provide gifts to any children whose wish list was not selected from the tree.  For more information, please contact Julie Steinbeck or (910) 798-3545.