What We Do
Fostering Wishes' programs are essential in supporting foster children by filling critical gaps in education, stability, and life skills, empowering them to succeed as they transition into adulthood.
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Each of our core programs are designed to bring
Joy, Dignity, Belonging, and Opportunity
to the lives of foster youth
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Holiday Gift Drive
The Holiday Gift Drive is Fostering Wishes’ signature program, designed to bring Joy and warmth to foster children during the holiday season. Each year, we collaborate with businesses and the community to provide gifts, ensuring every foster child receives something special just for them. But the gifts represent more than material items, they carry a message that these children are cared for and loved. The Holiday Gift Drive offers more than presents; it fosters hope and connection making the holidays brighter for hundreds of foster children each year.
The Duffel Bag Program
The Duffel Bag Program gives foster children a sense of Dignity and ownership during difficult transitions. Foster children often move between homes with, and many must use trash bags to carry their belongings. This program provides sturdy duffel bags filled with essential items like clothing, toiletries, and comfort items, helping them feel prepared and valued during uncertain times. Beyond the practical items, the duffel bags offers a bit of stability and a sense of ownership they deserve care, no matter the circumstances.
Teen Empowerment
The Teen Empowerment Program ensures foster teens have equal access to extracurricular activities, allowing them to fully engage in the high school experience and feel a sense of Belonging to the school they attend . Whether it’s sports, clubs, or school events, these activities are essential for building confidence, developing social skills, and fostering a sense of belonging. Foster youth often face financial barriers that prevent them from participating, and this program provides the necessary funding to cover costs like sports fees, uniforms, and event tickets. By ensuring foster teens can participate alongside their peers, we help them feel included, valued, and connected to their school community, empowering their personal growth and
social integration.
Trade School Scholarships
Fostering Wishes helps transition-age and former foster youth pursue stable, well-paying careers through trade schools, community colleges, unions, and apprenticeship programs. We provide Trade School Scholarships and practical support for approved expenses, including tuition, tools, uniforms, books, safety equipment, and certification or licensing fees. By removing financial barriers to career training, the program creates Opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop valuable skills, and become self-sufficient adults. As part of the application, participants are asked to commit to giving back after completing their program by mentoring, encouraging, or otherwise supporting foster children and youth still in the foster care system.