This year, thanks to the combined efforts of 18 individual donors, and several local businesses and organizations, children in foster care, from our very own community, are poised to have a Merry Christmas filled with joy and love!

Sometimes the simplest gesture—like sponsoring a child for Christmas—can make the most significant difference. Each year, CASA encounters individuals who understand their capacity to contribute, no matter how small. This community’s spirit of showing up, lending a hand, and working together is what makes Jefferson County truly exceptional. It’s a collective effort that fuels hope. This year, 18 individual donors, Madison-Walmart, Grote, Dendy Pet Care, Madison Family Dentistry, The Jefferson County Goodwill Conservation Club, Zimmer Tractor, and the Elks Lodge have generously provided 60 children with Christmas gifts.

Another particularly heartwarming aspect of this initiative has been the involvement of an annonymous and dedicated Friend of CASA, known for his exceptional craftsmanship, and commitment to CASA of Jefferson County. Santa’s “Bike Engineering Elf” has brought an extra layer of joy to the gifts distributed this year. “For many children, receiving a new bike or trike is a dream come true — a symbol of freedom and adventure that ignites their imagination and fosters independence. I am happy to help!”

“Advocating for children also means advocating for their experience of Christmas morning while they are in care. The last thing we want is for Santa to miss even one stop, which is why we thank everyone who has ever partnered with us in this effort.”

-Whitney Roberts

Organizing such a large-scale gift-giving effort requires meticulous planning, and this is a task that begins long before the holiday season. In fact, the planning and outreach for this initiative started as early as July. Understanding the specific needs of the children and building strong relationships within the community are essential components of this project. The Court Appointed Special Advocates work to ensure they connect with foster parents, kinship placements, and biological parents to understand their child’s needs and wants during this critical time.

Brenda Holbrook, CASA’s Program Coordinator has been at the heart of this effort for years, and the impact of her efforts is immeasurable. For the children assigned to the CASA program, the holiday season becomes a time of joy, hope, and dreams fulfilled. They leave behind the struggles of their daily lives, even if just for a moment, to revel in the festivities and celebrations created through Brenda's dedication one Christmas at a time.

"Christmas is the most magical time of year in so many ways! We are happily overwhelmed with the support of so many individuals and businesses in the community who step up to provide gifts for the children and families who need it most. These gifts, regardless of how small or large, provide so much more than physical items. They provide a sense of normalcy and hope that is absolutely priceless. The support of our community shows how much we all are still willing to believe in the magic of the season. We are so very blessed and thankful for all of our amazing donors and sponsors. Happiest of Holidays to everyone!"

-Brenda Holbrook

This holiday season, as the lights twinkle throughout the neighborhoods and the scent of pine fills the air, let us remember each child in foster care who will be waking up to the gifts that this community has helped to provide. Each gift is more than just an item; it is a message that these children are valued and loved.