HHSC hosted its seventh annual Holiday Wishes gift drive for children in foster care in Central Texas Dec. 9 and 10. Staff sponsored more than 1,000 wish lists, donating more than 5,200 gifts.

Gifts included bicycles, small electronics and a variety of toys and clothing. Staff even fulfilled wish lists for a vanity set and miniature trampoline.

Volunteers said some employees brought extra gifts to make sure all children had something to unwrap on Christmas morning.

Incoming Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth and chief officers volunteered alongside staff to collect and tag the presents in Austin.

HHSC partners with the Governor's Commission for Women and Partnerships for Children each year to collect gifts for children in the state's foster care network.

This year 57 state agencies took part in donating gifts to children in 25 counties. HHSC Human Resources Employee Programs led agency efforts.

"Holiday Wishes is more than a donation drive," said Erin Duran, HHSC Human Resources Employee Programs specialist. "It's a way for employees to show the heart behind public service. Every year we see incredible generosity from employees who want to make sure children in foster care feel valued and remembered during the holidays."