Local Welfare Board Brings Christmas Joy to Foster Children

The Jim Wells County Welfare Board hosted a Christmas party on December 10 to provide gifts and a festive gathering for local foster children, many of whom may not otherwise have a holiday celebration. The event distributed donated toys, clothing and gift cards and aimed to create a sense of belonging for children who face frequent residential changes.

Organizers said the party matters because foster children often lack the consistent family routines that define the season for other households. Jim Wells County Board President Magda Luna described the need this way, "A lot of the kids have never really had a good Christmas. And we wanted to make sure that we would have extra gifts for them. To at least enjoy - have something to open up on Christmas," Luna said. A spokesperson for the Department of Family and Protective Services said about 100 foster care children live in Jim Wells County, though the number changes daily as children move in and out of the system.

Cortney Jones, founder of Change One and a candidate for State District 12, attended and spoke from personal experience. Jones spent 10 years in foster care starting at age 8 and aging out at 18. She reflected on how uneven support during the holidays shaped her childhood, "Throughout my experience in foster care, I have had group homes, shelters, foster homes. And each of my experiences have been different. And how people have supported me throughout the holidays," Jones said. She added that a community event like the board organized would have mattered to her, "I can only imagine if I did have an event where there are people loving on me and showing me that they care. That that would've made of difference for me," Jones said.

The county event underscores broader local fiscal and social pressures. Foster care families and children often confront economic instability that limits spending on nonessential items during peak retail months. Local donations of tangible items and gift cards help close that gap and deliver immediate relief at a time when children are particularly vulnerable to loneliness and exclusion.

Santa made a scheduled appearance to hand out presents to children in attendance. Residents who want to support the Welfare Board with donations, or request information about future efforts, can call 361-562-9166.