Westchester Holiday Gift Drive is Launched

WESTCHESTER – Helping to spread some holiday cheer to all of Westchester County’s foster children, Westchester County Executive George Latimer announced that County is now accepting new, unwrapped toys and gifts for the 2021 holiday season. The Holiday Gift Drive, which is being run by the Department of Social Services (DSS), takes place each year to ensure that every child in Westchester County has a gift to open for the holidays.

Latimer said, “The 2020 holiday season was a difficult one for a number Westchester County’s families, the pandemic brought on added stress and a financial strain for many. But – the holidays are also a great time of year to be thankful for the things you do have, and to find ways to help those who are less fortunate than you. We are thrilled to bring back the Holiday Gift Drive for the 2021 season, the perfect way to bring holiday cheer to kids who are in need. I am encouraging everyone who can to please find it in their hearts to donate, and help brighten a child’s holiday this season.”

Commissioner of the Department of Social Services Leonard Townes said, “For children in foster care and other service programs, the holidays can be very disheartening. Your donation or gift can make all the difference in their day and brighten the holiday season. For many of these children, your donation might be the only gift they may receive. I am encouraging everyone who is able, to contribute to this cause in order to help lift the spirits of our children in care.”

In addition to new, unwrapped toys, DSS is also graciously accepting gift cards and monetary donations. Toys and gifts are requested for all ages from newborn through age 21. No stuffed animals please. The Holiday Gift Drive will run through Friday, December 17.
Monetary donations will be accepted in the form of gift cards, cash or checks made out to the Westchester Child Welfare Holiday Fund. Anyone wishing to make a monetary donation should contact Barbara Sabater at or (914) 995-1937.

A collection bin will be placed on the first floor of the Westchester County Office Building at 148 Martine Avenue.