Spreading Joy In Georgia: State Defense Force and Major Clark Howard Partner to Fulfill Children’s Holiday Wish

For over three decades, Clark’s Christmas Kids has been a beacon of hope for children in Georgia’s foster care system. This heartwarming initiative, founded by former Georgia State Defense Force Major Clark Howard, aims to ensure that every foster child in Georgia receives at least one gift on Christmas morning. With the support of organizations like WSB Radio, WSB TV, Walmart, and St. Vincent de Paul Georgia, the program has grown into a cherished holiday tradition for many. St. Vincent de Paul, in particular, ensures that all purchased gifts are delivered to the chosen foster children, bringing joy and dignity to those in need.

Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Soldiers show up in force to support retired Maj. Clark Howard’s Clark’s Christmas Kids. Christmas Kids ensures that all children in the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) foster homes receive Christmas gifts, Marietta, Ga., Dec. 15, 2024. Working with a purpose in all areas, the GSDF helped sponsors select the child they wished to help, checked in the toys purchased, provided traffic inside control directing hundreds of people with overloaded shop

This year, Clark’s Christmas Kids achieved remarkable success, raising over $1.3 million and fulfilling the Christmas wishes of nearly 9,000 foster children across Georgia. Through live broadcasts, toy collection events, and online donations, the program continued its legacy of generosity. Over its 34-year history, it has provided more than 25,000 gifts to children, making it the most successful and longest-running foster care Christmas initiative in the United States. Reflecting on this year’s achievements, Clark Howard expressed his gratitude, encouraging donors to take a moment on Christmas morning to think about the lives they’ve touched. With its 35th year on the horizon, the program is poised for even greater accomplishments.

The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) proudly supported this year’s Clark’s Christmas Kids events. On December 15, 2024, GSDF Soldiers volunteered their time and efforts in Marietta, Georgia, embodying their commitment to community service. Retired GSDF Major Clark Howard, who served the organization for 21 years before retiring in 2023, continues to champion the GSDF and its role in supporting community initiatives. The partnership between Clark’s Christmas Kids and the GSDF underscores the importance of giving back and making a tangible difference in the lives of Georgia’s foster children during the holiday season.

Source: Sources: Radiolink – Clarks Christmas Kids – Georgia State Defense Force