DEKALB COUNTY, Ga.,None — Every year the DeKalb County Child Advocacy Center organizes a gift giving program for foster children.
Channel 2's Craig Lucie found out this years Hope for the Holidays is the smallest it has ever been due to the economy and budget cuts.
Dee Tucker is a single foster mother who has her hands full this time of year.
She takes care of Justin, Jordan, Jacory, Paris and Jaden. Jaden wants another football and pads for Christmas.
Tucker is on a fixed income so she tries her best to save up for Christmas presents, but with five children she needs a little help.
"We would not have a great Christmas that we have every year. It's been an amazing program," Tucker said.
For four years Tucker has relied on the DeKalb County Child Advocacy Center's Hope for the Holidays program.
They used to collect gifts from 30 county departments, including police and fire, but now only 19 departments are signed up due to budget cuts.
"This year the program doesn't have has many supporters with departments," Ericka McClam with the Child Advocacy Center said.
That means the number of children who will see gifts this year will drop dramatically.
"Two years ago we supported over 100 children, the year before that over 60. This year we only have 30 to 35 children to provide gift and support this year," McClam said.
With only a few days to go before the gift giving deadline, Hope for Holidays only has two presents, but McClam said that will hopefully grow before December 22nd.
Paris Moore, 8, said she knows many children don't get to see many presents under the tree, but adds it makes that much more special when they are under hers.
"I get very happy and it makes me want to hug my mom," Paris said.
Something she said she will do this year regardless, but does want to share a word with you.
"Don't get scared to donate," Tucker said.
If you would like to help out, you can email the DeKalb County Child Advocacy Center at dccac@dekalbcountyga.gov or call 404-294-2646.
WSBTV
