From left are Jennifer Litzinger, G.A. Family Services program manager, Darla Vik, G.A. Family Services nurse, Chad Ecklof, owner of Ecklof Bakery, and Kathleen Maynard, G.A. Family Services family resource coordinator, with her daughter Nora. Submitted Photo

After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, G.A. Family Services is again partnering with Ecklof Bakery to raise money and awareness during National Foster Care Month.

Through May 27, heart-shaped sugar cookies will be on sale at the bakery with partial proceeds benefiting G.A.’s foster care program.

“We’ve been a supporter of G.A. Family Services for many years. It is a tradition my dad started and I’m happy to continue during this special month,” said Chad Ecklof, owner and operator of Ecklof Bakery.

National Foster Care Month occurs each May and is an opportunity to acknowledge foster parents, family members, volunteers, mentors, policymakers, child welfare professionals, and other members of the community who help children and youth in foster care find permanent homes and connections. There are more than 407,000 children and youth in foster care across the country and Chautauqua County is no different.

“We’re so excited for this event to be back again,” said Ericka Garcia-Allison, executive director for G.A. Family Services. “There are so many amazing people and businesses in this county that help foster, adopt, mentor, and support our youth in need. We’re so thankful for them.”

Community members interested in supporting the cause can visit Ecklof Bakery at 832 Foote Ave., Jamestown to purchase cookies individually or by the dozen. The special heart-shaped sugar cookies will be available on a first come, first serve basis. Those wishing to place a large order are encouraged to call ahead at 716-488-1516.

To learn more about G.A. Family Services, visit www.gafamilyservices.org or call 716-708-6161.