Businesses gave delight to foster kids
Happiness, delight, enjoyment, and adventure were the emotions felt by over 150 S.C. Department of Social Services foster children who were entertained this past season at Wild Water and Wheels, Alligator Adventure, and the Alabama Theater’s Christmas Show. Thanks to the generosity of Mark Lazarus, Jake Puglia and Bob Wood, who help to put smiles on the faces and laughter in the hearts of little children in Horry and Georgetown counties.
Often, children who are neglected and abused or have become victims of their parents/guardians alcohol and drug abuse, or criminal actions, are placed in foster care for safety and nurture, but miss out on the social, sports and recreational events our county offers. That is fun events, which some foster parents are unable to include after giving a home, food, and clothing.
That is the basics. For over 22 years these men and many other businesses and individuals throughout Horry and Georgetown counties, have given foster children the extras in addition to what foster parents provide.
As a longtime advocate for children, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Not everyone has an interest in being a foster parent, but fortunately there are many businesses who believe that what is good for the children of our community is also a wise investment in the future of Horry and Georgetown counties.
The writer lives in Myrtle Beach and is volunteer coordinator of Foster Care Ministries of First Presbyterian Church.
This story was originally published February 22, 2016 at 8:30 AM with the headline "Businesses gave delight to foster kids."