Foster Care Program Faces Donor Shortage With 100 Children Unmatched for Holidays

Operation Good Cheer needs more than 100 sponsors to provide gifts for kids in Michigan's foster system. For 55 years, this effort has delivered personalized presents to children who need them most.

The group works with agencies across the state. They collect wish lists from participating kids—up to six gift ideas per child. Sponsors adopt one or more children for the season and purchase at least three items from their lists.

Gifts arrive at several drop-off points around Michigan before heading to Oakland County International Airport in Waterford Township. Volunteer pilots fly them out. Truck drivers help too. Together, they distribute presents statewide.

"Every child deserves to feel seen, celebrated and cared for," said Program Manager Emmanuel Boateng, according to ClickOnDetroit. "We're calling on the community to help us make sure no child is left out this Christmas."

More than 1,000 volunteers pitch in each year. In a typical season, the group sends 20,000 gifts to over 6,000 children.

Last year brought success—6,730 kids received presents thanks to 105 agencies and 186 groups or individual donors. This year? Participation has dropped. Holiday hopes now hang in the balance for enrolled children still waiting for matches.

Boateng talked about what the work means. "Sponsoring a child is simple, meaningful and unforgettable," he said, as per Click On Detroit. "The joy these kids show when they feel thought of and appreciated is so pure and powerful. It never stops warming your heart."

Child and Family Charities runs Operation Good Cheer, which has been going strong for more than five decades. Sponsors pick specific children and buy items tailored to what each kid wants.

The deadline to become a donor? Nov. 10, 2025. Interested sponsors can sign up at childandfamily.org/operation-good-cheer.