“Project Santa” grants hundreds of wishes this holiday season

SALINAS, Calif. (KION) Angela Rader is raising six kids this holiday season. “There’s never a dull moment. That’s for sure,” said Vader.

Over the past three years, Rader has taken on a new role as a foster mom. “You just know that you're making a difference on these children and their families. You're also teaching your children to give to others, and how it is for other kids to not have moms and dads,” said Rader.

Many associate the holidays with family, but for others that’s not always the case. Hundreds of kids live in foster care in Monterey County. One non-profit organization is making sure each of them have a gift under the tree, this year.

“It's about making them smile and just making sure we remember all of them on Christmas. We ask the caregivers what the kids are wanting for Christmas,” said Director of the Kinship Care Program at Hartnell College, Margie Wiebusch. 

“Project Santa” delivers hundreds of presents to children in foster programs across Monterey County. Each gift is picked out and donated with a special child in mind. 

“We give a gift to each child in the family, not just the children in foster care. We give them to all of their siblings, as well, up to ages 21 and 22 years old,” said Wiebusch. 

Gifts like Lego sets, puzzles, books, and even gift cards are at the top of this year’s “Project Santa” wishlist. 

Those interested in donating still have time. 

“It's just really a special gift. A lot of families couldn't even do it without these programs. Sometimes they have multiple children like our family and Christmas is a hard time. This definitely is a blessing,” said Rader.