Project Joy Brings Hope to Foster Kids this Holiday Season
On November 12, Marion County celebrated the launch of its annual Project Joy Toy Drive, a partnership that uplifts foster, adoptive, guardianship, and relative care families by reducing financial burdens and reminding children that they are loved. The presentation highlighted the practical support and profound impact Project Joy delivers to local youth.
“Last year, our employees supported 30 families and nearly 180 children, purchasing over 300 gifts ranging from toys and clothes to diapers and hygiene products, said Kathy Bolen, a Workforce Development Coordinator with the county. “Together, we raised more than $8,000 to brighten the holidays for Marion County kids.”
The most moving testimony came from Riley Warren, a high school senior and former foster youth now serving as the voice for teens on Project Joy’s board.
“When I was placed into foster care, I arrived with nothing,” said Warren. “Project Joy gave me a backpack filled with clothes, pajamas, and a pink teddy bear. That bear gave me my first safe place. It wasn’t just stuff—it was a powerful message that I mattered, that I was seen, and that I deserved comfort. Project Joy doesn’t just give material items, they restore childhoods and plant seeds of hope.”
The room was moved by Warren’s story, and Commissioners Colm Willis and Cameron voiced their support and appreciation for the project.
“It’s not necessarily the material things that matter—it’s the hope, and the reminder that you matter,” said Commissioner Cameron. “Hearing Riley’s story shows how this project makes a difference in personal lives and how giving back continues the cycle of hope.”
The commissioners shared their gratitude to employees, partners, and residents whose generosity makes the holidays brighter for children in foster care.
The 2025 Project Joy Toy Drive runs November 17 through December 12. Community members are invited to contribute gifts, diapers, toiletries, or monetary donations. Contributions can be dropped off at Courthouse Square, 555 Court Street NE, Human Resources Office, on the 4th Floor (Suite 4250). Monetary donations should be made out to the Oregon Resource Family Alliance.
“When you support Project Joy, you’re not just donating toys—you’re giving a child hope, dignity, and the chance to finally be a kid,” concluded Warren.