Gift-giving drive reports record numbers

SANDUSKY — Dozens of local residents played the role of secret Santa. And local officials, masquerading as elves, ensured hundreds of underprivleged children collectively received thousands of donated presents this holiday season. As in years past, Erie County children services — a department within Erie County Job and Family Services — reported another record year for its annual gift-giving initiative benefiting area youth primarily in foster care and beyond. Nearly 50 different entities — be it individuals, groups, organizations or businesses — supplied more than 3,000 gifts toward the 2025 drive, up from about 2,000 in 2024. Those working for children services finished dropping off presents days ahead of Christmas, connecting with people on their caseloads. This year's effort supported 300 children. This included the roughly 90 in county custody today and another 210 or so at-risk area youth who might not have otherwise celebrated a Christmas with presents. Beyond the wrapped toys, children services workers obtained an additional $10,000 in monetary donations and gift cards. They spent the money on gifts and other items, all benefiting area children. And some community members contributed handmade blankets, knitted quilts and homemade stockings. Those donating don't know or get to meet recipients of these gifts. Per state law, officials keep the identities of minors in their custody private to protect them. And that's what, in part, makes this effort even more special, officials said: people giving without even knowing who's getting these items. Children services workers wholeheartedly expressed their gratitude to everyone who contributed in some fashion. "The increased number of children who we have served this year made the demand to make every child's holiday unforgettable, a very large task for our community, however, they surely did not disappoint," said Ashley Gilbert, deputy director of social programs for job and family services. She also oversees this very program. "It is such an amazing sight to walk into work every day and seeing our entire department flooded with gifts and toys for the children we serve," said Gilbert, noting her colleagues begin collecting gifts immediately after Thanksgiving. "The caseworkers have equally as much fun, practicing being Santa's elves as they spend the first half of the month traveling around the state of Ohio to ensure that each child feels Santa's love on Christmas Day." Gilbert credited Michelle Schultz, a clerical specialist for children services, who helps supervise this event yearly, ensuring "why our holiday donations are so successful year after year." "She recruits donations, collaborates with local organizations, answers hundreds of calls and emails throughout the season, shops for additional items on wish lists, travels around the county to pick up large toy donations and does all the tracking and organizing that is required for such a large project," Gilbert said. "She has often worked late hours throughout the month to ensure that gifts are labeled, distributed appropriately and are ready for their delivery. But, even though Michelle has headed this operation for years, she is still amazed at the support from our local community." Schultz also thanked everyone who spent their hard-earned money and provided presents to children they'll never see. "Year after year, we are blown away by the support and generosity of this community," Schultz said. "There are so many businesses, organizations and individuals who donate their time, resources and hearts to ensure that the most vulnerable children of Erie County can have a joyous holiday," she added. "Our donors thoughtfully give, despite only being able to imagine the child's face as they open their gifts and watch their holiday wishes become reality. We count ourselves very lucky to be a part of this team and to have a community of support behind us." People can contact Schultz at michelle.schultz@jfs.ohio.gov for more information on this program, which will return in 2026.