Immediate Release
December 13, 2011
Batavia, Ohio. An incredible outpouring of community support from citizens and businesses will enable the Clermont County Children’s Protective Services (CPS) Community Toy Chest to provide a warm coat, clothes, and toys to over 300 children in county care this holiday season. Last week, a last minute plea for community assistance was issued; sponsors were still needed for 60 children, between the ages of birth to 18. “I would like to thank each and every individual that responded to our call for assistance,” said Community Toy Chest Coordinator Sanna Gast. “Because of overwhelming community support, we have received $1,400 in cash donations and enough sponsors to cover all of the children!”
Gast said the children in county care have been abused and neglected; for many, this is the first holiday they have been away from the only family they have ever known. “It is a difficult time for the kids,” she said. “You should see how they light-up when they receive these gifts. My heart is filled with joy to know that we will be able to provide holiday gifts to all of the children in county care.”
The Community Toy Chest accepts donations of checks or cash to purchase gifts for children in county as they reach other milestones in their lives, such as high school graduation. For more information about the Community Toy Chest and how you can get involved, call (513) 732-7264 or email gasts@odjfs.state.oh.us.
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For additional information about this or other county news, contact Clermont County Communications Director Kathy Lehr at (513) 732-7597 or by e-mail, klehr@ clermontcountyohio.gov.