Holiday Wishes program provides gifts and hope to thousands of foster children in Texas

Austin, Texas – First Lady Cecilia Abbott recently highlighted the incredible generosity of Texans who helped bring joy to foster children this holiday season. Through the annual Holiday Wishes program, more than 5,300 wish lists from children in foster care were fulfilled, thanks to donations from employees of 56 participating state agencies. This year’s program, coordinated by the nonprofit Partnerships for Children and sponsored by the Governor’s Commission for Women and the State Agency Council, ensures that children in foster care across 31 counties in Central and South Central Texas receive gifts to brighten their Christmas morning.

Texans Helping Texans

“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 in Texas during the holiday season. This starts with a Network of Nurture—a community of individuals, families, friends, local leaders, nonprofit organizations, businesses, faith community members, and anyone willing to open their hands, their hearts, or their homes to the children and families in the state’s child welfare system. I thank the Governor’s Commission for Women, the State Agency Council, Partnerships for Children, and employees of the 56 participating state agencies who generously donated much-wanted gifts for our children in foster care.”

In celebration of the program’s success, the First Lady recently hosted members of the Governor’s Commission for Women and the State Agency Council at the Governor’s Mansion. Together, they prepared gift bags for caseworkers who support foster children in the Central Texas region.

Supporting Women and Children in Texas

The Governor’s Commission for Women has been a resource for women across Texas for over 50 years, offering access to tools and resources that help women and girls live healthier, more productive lives. The Commission works closely with the State Agency Council, which provides professional development opportunities for its members and presents the Outstanding Women in Texas Government Awards.

Partnerships for Children, founded in 2003 in Central Texas, has played a critical role in supporting children, youth, and families involved with Child Protective Services. Its mission is to create a brighter future for vulnerable children by offering the resources and empowerment they need to thrive.

This year’s Holiday Wishes program exemplifies the spirit of Texans coming together to support one another, making the holiday season truly special for thousands of foster children across the state.