GMS Leadership

10/27/16

Dear Grizzly Parents:

Gardner Middle School is participating in a wonderful charitable cause called Operation Santa Claus.  This cause reaches out to local foster children who are currently living in hospitals or state-run institutions.  Sadly, the children are not ready to transition into traditional foster care, because they have undergone extensive trauma and abuse.  

The state of California is unable to provide these children with Christmas gifts, and Operation Santa Claus is the only method by which they will receive presents.  Gardner Middle School hosts an annual gift giving event, collecting hundreds of gifts to be distributed throughout the county.  This year there are over 580 children in need.

Your child’s 7th period class has ‘adopted’ one or more of these children and has received his or her age and gender. The social workers cannot release the children’s names, due to confidentiality.  If you would like to become involved, please send your child to school with an unwrapped gift.  Some of the children have requested specific gifts, but any age-appropriate gift would be greatly appreciated.  

In addition to gifts of toys and games, the children are also in need of some basic hygiene products: toothpaste, shampoo, and soap to name a few.  Their social workers are also asking for pillows, blankets, totes, Duffel bags and school backpacks.  CPS often removes the child from the home in haste and these items are often left behind.  

All donations must be new with tags attached.  The due date for all items is Wednesday, November 30th.

Please consider becoming involved in this cause.  It is a wonderful way to teach your child about the positive impact he or she can make in the lives of other children over the holiday season and beyond.   For specific questions, please email me at kshackelford@tvusd.k12.ca.us

Kindly,

Kristie Shackelford

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Child #1  Gender: Boy Age: 14  Shoe Size: 7.5  Clothing Sizes: He wears a large shirt in mens and a 32 x 34 pant. Gifts Requested: His last name starts with the letter “E” and his favorite color is blue. He would love clothes, shoes, and a play station. :)  OF COURSE any gift would be great.

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Child #2: Gender: Girl Age: 12  Clothing Sizes: small pants and small shirt in teen sizes. Gifts Requested: Her last name starts with the letter “K” and her favorite color is purple. She would a ukulele or karaoke machine. :) However, any age-appropriate gift would be great.

Along with gifts these children need: a school backpack, a pillow, a blanket, toiletries and hygiene products.  They would also use an overnight tote. Thank you in advance for participating in this wonderful cause!