September 2020
From the Executive Director
Dear Friend,

It feels like just the other day our world was turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic - so it's hard to believe holiday planning is in full swing. We have lots of news to share about how we are going to bring holiday magic to our kids again this year! Please join us for a virtual holiday discussion next Wednesday, Sept 30th at 10 AM to learn more -- details are below.

While we are talking about the holidays, one way you can support our children is to use AmazonSmile when purchasing online and choose Guardian ad Litem Foundation of Tampa Bay as your charity of choice: smile.amazon.com/ch/59-2961546. For every 2 dollars you spend, we receive 1 cent--it might not seem like a lot, but it adds up over time. This year, we have received hundreds from supporters purchasing items on Amazon.

We know GALS continue to advocate for kids everyday and we want to take a moment to share one story of how together we are making a difference:

Kaia is a 3-year-old girl who has been living with her aunt after being removed from her parents due to severe neglect. Kaia’s mother has no contact with her, and her father is homeless and is unable to show up for Kaia at this time. Due to COVID-19, Kaia’s aunt lost her job as a waitress recently.  Kaia is growing quickly and needed new clothing but her aunt had no extra funds after paying her bills with savings. The GAL states, “Kaia is a quickly growing girl and her aunt is trying to do as much as she can for her, but she needs help. She is not currently working due to no fault of her own and she continues to provide Kaia with a safe and happy home even during such a tumultuous time.” 

Thanks to our donors and Kaia's Guardian ad Litem, Kaia now has the clothing she needs and her aunt has a little less stress. We continue to be here for you and the children for whom you advocate. We appreciate all you do, especially during these challenging times.

With gratitude,

Amy E. Foster
Executive Director

P.S. It's your last chance to register for the SuperHero 5K. If you like to run or walk or just want to be a Hero to A Child: register today. As you know the best, our SuperHero 5K can be virtual, but our kids needs are not!
RESOURCES FOR CHILDREN, TEENS & FAMILIES
Virtual Holiday Discussion
Wednesday Sept 30; 10 AM - 11 AM
Computer/Tablet/Phone
There are lots of changes to our Holiday Gift Drive this year! Make sure you are prepared! Please join our Virtual Discussion on Zoom and check out our website for Frequently Asked Questions, How To Documents and More! If you aren't able to attend we will post the recording here.
COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Program
This program provides financial support to caregivers who have experienced economic disruption. For more information, see our website.
SPEAK YOUR MIND CONTEST WINNERS
This year's summer contest for teens & young adults was to discuss the current climate of racism in America. Each of our winners had a poignant, passionate response. Go to our website to see the submissions--they will impress you with their power.

1st Place: Ashanti, age 20

2nd Place: Camesha, age 17

Third Place: Siyon, 12 &
Holly, 20

Congratulations to our winners!
OPPORTUNITIES
TO SERVE
Holiday Magic Gift Drive Virtual Volunteer Opportunities
Do you know your way around a computer and have basic internet skills, including how to shop on Amazon? We are looking for volunteers to help with our annual holiday gift drive by inputting wish lists into Amazon for our donors to purchase items directly to send to GALS. Please reach out to Tawnee if you are interested in learning more!
Holiday Magic Gift Drive Donors Needed
Do you belong to a faith community, service club, homeowners association or are an employee at a company who would like to sponsor a child or children this upcoming holiday season? We are looking for more holiday donors to help make sure every child in need in the GAL Program receives some magic this holiday season. Reach out to Tawnee for more information.
CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN

We are grateful to all who have made donations during this time! We especially want to thank our SuperHero 5K Sponsors for investing in us!
SUPERHERO SPONSOR: ADVANTA IRA
CHAMPION SPONSORS: BIOSPINE FOUNDATION & UPC INSURANCE
ADVOCATE SPONSORS:
The Allen Family &
We know times are hard and many of us have been hit with unexpected economic challenges, but if you are in a position to help, children need it now more than ever.

Help us make sure that every family caring for one of our children
has what they need to stay safe, well and healthy here.
We advocate for and support children, young adults, and families
impacted by abuse and neglect in Pinellas and Pasco Counties by collaborating
with community partners and the Guardian ad Litem staff and volunteers who support the children we serve.

We envision a community where every child and young adult is safe, secure and thriving. We believe every child deserves to have a permanent family and be well prepared for their future beyond foster care.
Guardian ad Litem Foundation of Tampa Bay | 727.464.6528 | Website
14250 49th St, Suite 4000 Clearwater, FL 33712