Oklahoma Human Services Seeks Community Support for Holiday Hope Program

OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma Human Services is calling on the community to help bring holiday cheer to thousands of children in the state’s foster care system through its annual Holiday Hope program.

Last year, the program distributed holiday gifts to more than 5,300 children across Oklahoma, and organizers hope to reach even more families this season.

“The holiday season is a time of wonder, warmth, and joy – and every child deserves to feel its magic, no matter their circumstances,” said Michael Williams, Director of Child Welfare Services. “Through Holiday Hope, Oklahomans have an opportunity to show children in the child welfare system that they are cherished, seen, and deeply valued.”

How to Help

Residents can support the initiative in several ways, including purchasing items from children’s wish lists, donating funds, or providing gift cards. The agency has placed particular emphasis on gift card donations this year, as they allow staff to purchase gifts for children who enter the system after the wish list deadline.

Those interested in participating can browse an interactive map on the Oklahoma Human Services website to find local coordinators and learn about donation opportunities in their area. For residents in Oklahoma County, approximately 1,500 children have wish lists waiting to be fulfilled.

Partnership with OICA

Oklahoma Human Services is partnering with the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy (OICA) to coordinate the statewide effort.

The Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy is again honored to co-sponsor Holiday Hope with Oklahoma Human Services,” said Joe Dorman, OICA CEO. “Our work together over the years has helped to make the holidays brighter for Oklahoma’s children in foster care. It is a joy to be a part of this effort again this year.”

Those who wish to donate gift cards can do so through OICA’s online portal at https://oica.app.neoncrm.com/campaigns/holidayhope.

Year-round Need

While the holiday program brings seasonal joy, Oklahoma Human Services Director Jeffrey Cartmell emphasized the ongoing need for foster families throughout the year.

“We are incredibly grateful for our community partners, donors and the organizations that consistently show up for our children and families, offering hope each holiday season,” Cartmell said. “No donation or act of kindness is too small to make a difference in the lives of the families we serve.”

The agency is particularly seeking families willing to foster large sibling groups, teenagers, and children with behavioral health needs.

Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a foster family can visit okfosters.org or call 1-800-376-9729.

For questions about Holiday Hope donations or to find more information, email HolidayHope@okdhs.org.