Saint Francis Ministries has begun its annual Christmas for Kids campaign, which provides presents to children in foster care at Christmas. Each year, Saint Francis and its community partners work hard to ensure that no child served by the ministry goes without a gift under the tree on Christmas morning.

This year’s campaign kicks off with two toy drives, from 8-5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 30, and from 8-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5. Donors can drop off toys at the Saint Francis office at 1508 Main Street. 

“Christmas for Kids is our major event of the year,” said Vickee Spicer, director of marketing. “Saint Francis staff throughout the state work closely with our community donors and supporters to brighten the lives of children. We really get excited about it.”

Saint Francis Ministries sees to it that each child’s basic, seasonal needs are met, such as winter clothing, coats and shoes. Christmas for Kids, however, helps meet a child’s wants. Working with corporate sponsors and individual donors, Saint Francis provides Christmas gifts for about 3,200 children each year.   

Saint Francis employees throughout Kansas have started collecting toys, gift cards, and cash donations to purchase presents in preparation for a December distribution. Organizations and businesses interested in sponsoring toy drives are encouraged to contact Saint Francis to learn more about Christmas for Kids and to arrange pick-up of collected toys and gifts.  

Persons interested in providing a present for a child in foster care this Christmas can visit www.christmasforkids.com to find the nearest office or to make an online donation.