Community Based Care of Central Florida (CBCCF), a local organization that specializes in child welfare services in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties, would like to provide 75 families in its tri-county service area with Thanksgiving dinners. The organization hopes to spread the spirit of giving and is asking the community to donate food and gifts.

“The holidays are often called the most wonderful time of the year, but for many families, it’s a reminder of what they don’t have,” said Glen Casel, president and CEO of CBCCF. “Our goal is to make sure every child in foster care has a gift to open this holiday season and every family has a delicious meal.”

Donations can be dropped off at 4001 Pelee St., Orlando, 32817 now through Dec. 17 between the hours of 8 a.m.-5 p.m. CBCCF has four service centers in Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties. The closest locations for Lake Nona-area residents is the East Orange County location or the Kissimmee service center. A list of addresses can be found online at www.cbccfl.org/contact-us/.

The community can also ship items to their administrative support center. Boxes should be addressed to CBC of Central Florida Foundation, 4001 Pelee St., Orlando, FL 32817.

Requested items include:

·         Turkey
·         Stuffing mix
·         Cranberry sauce
·         Rolls or cornbread mix
·         Green beans and/or corn
·         Pumpkin pie
·         Powdered potatoes
·         Gravy
·         Gift cards to local grocery stores

Patrons are also encouraged to consider other potential gifts, such as toys for children age newborn to 17, bags or wallets, makeup, perfume or cologne, and electronics as gifts for older teenagers in foster care. Gift cards to use at their favorite stores,  popular restaurants, or a gas station to help cover the cost of fuel are also appreciated.

“More than anything, children in foster care want to feel ‘normal.’ The holidays can be particularly isolating for them. We want kids and their families to feel included in the season’s festivities and create memories that will last a lifetime,” said Casel.

Beyond the holiday season, CBCCF also encourages the public to participate in helping 1,700+ children through their Winter Wishlist campaign. For many children, this is the first time that they have ever been able to receive holiday gifts. Donors can help spread holiday magic by donating one (or several!) of the most sought-after gifts via CBCCF’s Amazon wish lists for children of different age groups.

To find other ways to get involved this holiday season, email [email protected].