For 25 years, CSA and radio station 1590 AM KVTA Local News Talk, have collaborated to collect toys and raise funds for the more than 1,000 foster children and youth in Ventura County, as well as growing numbers of additional low-income children and their families. Last year’s partnership helped generated 34,000 toys and the KVTA radio drive contributed an astonishing $40,378.05 to CSA’s funding of laptops, scholarships, camps, and graduation incentives for foster youth. The charitable collaboration is expected to serve 1,000 foster kids and 2,500 children from low-income families during the month of December.
This year, Foster VC Kids is joining the historic radio drive to raise awareness and secure additional, needed homes with heart for local foster youth in need. They are seeking quality caregivers in West Ventura County, specifically Oxnard and Ventura, who can help children remain in their schools of origin and who have space for two or more children so brothers and sisters can stay together for the holidays.
Every child deserves a family, and this holiday season Foster VC Kids hopes that by joining 1590 AM KVTA Local News Talk Radio and Children’s Services Auxiliary (CSA) for their “Holidays with Heart” drive, Dec. 1st – Dec. 23rd, more dedicated families who are ready for the life-changing experience of opening their home to a local foster child or youth will come forward.
“I can’t tell you how grateful I am, as a foster parent, to be involved with Foster VC Kids,” said Leeann Mesa, current foster parent and Children’s Services Auxiliary Treasurer. “We receive guidance through peer partner education, moral support programs, and extensive training so we know how to help our foster children. But there are also so many organizations that are willing to give to the kids. As part of CSA, I get to experience first-hand the impact that the items from this drive have on local foster youth and it’s just amazing.”
To participate in the “Holidays with Heart” drive by donating funds or toys, or by finding out how to welcome a foster child into your family, visit FosterVCKids.org or tune into 1590 AM KVTA Local News Talk Radio through December 23rd.
About Ventura County Human Services Agency, Foster VC Kids
Ventura County Human Services Agency (VCHSA) strengthens families, supports self-sufficiency and promotes safety, health, and well-being. All of their service areas operate and perform at the highest level to meet the needs of individuals, families, and the community by providing assistance, aid, and protection for foster youth and beyond. VCHSA demonstrates the ability to work in multicultural environments and ensures that policies, programs, and actions communicate respect for the dignity of all people. Visit www.fostervckids.org for more information.
About Children Services Auxiliary
The Children’s Services Auxiliary (CSA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1983, is a volunteer run organization whose mission is to meet the needs of Ventura County’s court-dependent children. These children have been displaced from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The Auxiliary also serves youth who have recently transitioned from the foster care system. The CSA Board of Directors work closely with Ventura County Children and Family Services to identify the needs of the court-dependent children and transitioning youth
