The late fall and winter holidays are looming large at JRI Foster Care!

On Thursday, November 6th, staff gathered together to create ornaments for the children in care—a nearly decade-long tradition that has become a cornerstone of our winter programming.

Many staff jokingly described themselves as “not crafty” or “all thumbs,” but everyone joined in the fun. Paper towel tubes were precisely cut, lengths of yarn were trimmed and tied, glue guns blazed (and caused a few minor burns along the way!), and the room filled with laughter, camaraderie, and joy. What began as a pile of simple supplies transformed into meaningful, beautiful decorations that will soon brighten children’s holidays.

This year, each child will receive a box or bag filled with a variety of winter-themed ornaments. Some will be store-bought, but most are made with love by people who may never meet the children themselves. Every ornament is chosen with care—whether it’s a glittery pinecone, a glass slice of pizza, or a cheerful Santa—so that each child has at least one item that feels personal and perfectly suited to them.

Ornaments will begin being distributed in early December. The hope is that each child experiences a spark of joy and belonging during the darkest months of the year.

If you’d like to contribute something special to brighten the holiday season for a child in foster care, please reach out to our team—we’d love your help in keeping this warm tradition alive!