Holiday season can raise stress levels for families

While many families look forward to the joy and closeness of the holiday season, other families find that the stress of trying to provide in difficult circumstances pushes them beyond their ability to cope.

Shari Pulliam, public relations director for the Department of Family and Protective Services (FPS) says, "The approaching holiday season does tend to put more pressure on parents in financial straits. We

always see an increase in abuse and neglect this time of year. We want to let the community know how they can help."

FPS is asking anyone with new toys, children's clothes, household cleaning products and non-perishable food items to donate them weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the FPS office at 928 Marvin Hancock Drive in Jasper.

The Rainbow Room is the inventory room where

caseworkers know they can pull the items needed for a child at any time. By the rules they can only accept new, unused items.

They are especially in need of baby clothes and wipes and hygiene items. They also like to receive non-perishable food items so they can put together a holiday basket to help families through the season.

The Adopt-ACaseworker program is also

looking for volunteers who can help with stocking, inventory, and shopping. Cash donations are used to fill in whatever is in short supply from donations.

For questions about donations or doing volunteer service, call 383-5571.

To report suspected abuse or neglect of a child, call 1-800-252-5400. You can remain anonymous, and all reports are strictly confidential.