The generous support of the local business community created an unforgettable Christmas for children in the Gustavus Adolphus Family Services Therapeutic Foster Care program.
The GA TFC staff, along with the foster care families and the children, had a special party that included gifts, a holiday meal and games.
"The community's donations and willingness to be involved in our Christmas celebration was truly overwhelming," said Sylvia A. Trusso MSW, TFC program manager. "All we had to do was ask, and everyone was more than happy to lend their support. The gift donations were amazing, the food was delicious and the laughter and joy we observed from our children and foster families, was priceless. We are thankful that there are so many people in the community who are willing to make a difference in the lives of children."
The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation provided a special interest grant to cover some of the costs of the food and gifts for the children. Other businesses that donated included: J.P. Diamond Cash and Carry; The Little Theatre of Jamestown; Trinity Church, Frewsburg; Tilaro's Bakery; Diane Thompson, Kennedy; Petri Baking Products, Silver Creek; and the Warner Place Day Program, on the LSS campus.
"Though the holiday season is usually a time for family gatherings and togetherness this is not necessarily the case for those children placed in foster care," added Beth Coughlin MS, family resource coordinator. "It's because of our local community businesses that we were able to make Christmas special for our children and our families. The gifts and donations for the children were received with immense gratitude."
Therapeutic Foster Care differs from other foster programs in many ways. Children placed with TFC are in need of medical oversight, including counseling and/or medication management. Gustavus Adolphus Family Services, located on the Lutheran Social Services campus in Jamestown, is a specialized treatment program for youth and their families who are in need of care.
Treatment includes residential, educational, therapeutic foster care and preventative services. Youth, aged 12-17 are placed at GAFS by family courts, the Department of Social Services, or public school districts. To learn more contact Ms. Trusso at 665-2116 or log on to gafamilyservices.org.
