First Lady Cecilia Abbott on Tuesday celebrated the generosity of Texans as more than 5,300 wish lists for children in foster care were fulfilled through the annual Holiday Wishes program.
The initiative, coordinated by the nonprofit Partnerships for Children, ensures foster children across 31 counties in Central and South Central Texas receive gifts for Christmas.
The program is sponsored by the Governor’s Commission for Women and the State Agency Council, with donations provided by employees from 56 state agencies.
“Every child deserves to know the promise of hope and the joy that Christmas brings,” said First Lady Abbott. “There is no greater example of Texans helping Texans than providing support for foster and adoptive families during the holiday season.”
Abbott emphasized the importance of a “Network of Nurture,” which she described as a community of individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and faith groups united to support children and families in Texas’ child welfare system.
To honor the program’s achievements, the First Lady recently hosted members of the Governor’s Commission for Women and the State Agency Council at the Governor’s Mansion.
During the event, participants prepared gift bags for caseworkers serving foster children in the Central Texas region.
The Governor’s Commission for Women, established more than 50 years ago, aims to empower Texas women and girls through resources and tools to foster healthier and more productive lives.
The State Agency Council supports the Commission’s efforts and provides professional development opportunities, including presenting the Outstanding Women in Texas Government Awards.
Founded in 2003, Partnerships for Children supports children and families involved with Child Protective Services.
The organization’s mission is to improve the lives of those in the child welfare system, empowering them for a brighter future.
For more information on the Holiday Wishes program or to support foster children in Texas, visit partnershipsforchildren. org.
