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November 6, 2019 - Helping to spread some holiday cheer to all of Westchester County’s foster children, Westchester County Executive George Latimer announced that County is now accepting new, unwrapped toys and gifts for the holiday season. The Holiday Gift and Toy Drive, which is being run through the Department of Social Services (DSS), takes place each year to ensure that every child in Westchester County has a gift to open for the holidays.
Latimer said: “The holidays are a great time of year to be thankful for the things you have, and to find was to help those who are less fortunate. The Holiday Gift and Toy Drive is a perfect way to bring holiday cheer to kids in need. I am encouraging everyone who can to please find it in their hearts to donate, and help brighten a child's holiday this season.”
Commissioner of the Department of Social Services Kevin McGuire said: “For the kids in foster care, homeless services programs and other sites, the holidays can be very sad and lonely, and your donation or gift can make all the difference in their day and the season ahead. As always, thank you for your generosity and support, and for those interested in giving the gift of your love and family as foster and/or adoptive parents, you can reach out to United Way’s 2-1-1 line for more information about how to begin that journey!”
DSS is also accepting gift cards and monetary donations, in addition to new, unwrapped gifts. Toys and gifts are requested for a variety of ages, from newborn up to age 21. No stuffed animals please. The Department is also running its “Wish List” program, which asks every child in the foster care system to request their top three gifts for the holidays. The drive will run through Friday, December 13.
All donations should be made out to the Westchester Child Welfare Holiday Fund. Anyone wishing to make a monetary donation should contact Barbara Sabater at or (914) 995-1937.
Collection bins will be placed on the first floor of the Westchester County Office Building at 148 Martine Avenue. Other collection locations include the DSS District Offices located at:
Central Office
112 East Post Road, White Plains
Mount Vernon District Office
100 East First Street, Mount Vernon
Peekskill District Office
750 Washington Street, Peekskill
White Plains District Office
85 Court Street, White Plains
Yonkers District Office
131 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers