By Chanel Bingham | Special to the Advertiser

Every child deserves a holiday full of hope and joy, and the Chilton County Department of Human Resources is working hard to make sure the foster children in the area have just that this Christmas season.

DHR is partnering with individuals in the community to provide Christmas presents for 90 foster children in Chilton County through the Christmas Wishes project.

This endeavor has always received “wonderful” support, said DHR Director Marilyn Colson, who is looking forward to another successful year.

“The community is always so supportive of this effort,” Colson said. “It really helps our staff to know that people care about what we do because of the great response we always get.”

The Christmas Wishes project utilizes both donations and sponsorships to fulfill the wish lists of local foster children.

Ages of children needing gifts this year range from infants to 18 years.

Dolls, books, Alabama and Auburn items, along with gift cards are just a few of the items on their wish lists.

“They just want the same things as other children want,” Colson said. “This project provides a way for children who can’t be with their family to feel like their lives are as valuable as anyone else.”

About 30 children remain in need of a sponsor. For those wanting to support the effort of the Christmas Wishes project, there are many ways to get involved:

•Make a financial donation to be used toward the purchase of wish list items.

•Provide a sponsorship for a specific child’s wishes.

•Donate gift cards, which are especially desirable for teenagers.

For more information on how to become involved with the Christmas Wishes project or to sponsor a child, call (205) 280-2000 or email marilyn.colson@dhr.alabama.gov.