Children’s Law Center Annual Holiday Party

Dear Friends of the Children's Law Center,

This year, the L. David Shear Children's Law Center (CLC) celebrates 20 years of giving children and youth in foster care a voice in the legal system. For two decades, our attorneys have advocated for children in court, our social workers have helped connect children and caregivers with critical services and resources, and our support staff have provided essential assistance that makes this work possible. 

One of the most meaningful ways we celebrate the children we serve is through our annual Holiday Party. This year’s holiday party will be held on Saturday, December 5th, 2026.

What began nearly twenty years ago has become a cherished tradition that brings together children, siblings, parents, caregivers, foster parents, grandparents, and other loved ones for a day filled with joy, connection, and childhood wonder. For one magical afternoon, children can simply be children. They listen to holiday music from a DJ, get their faces painted, create holiday crafts, enjoy a delicious holiday lunch, visit Santa, participate in raffles, and select a special book to take home and treasure.

Last year's Holiday Party was featured in the Tampa Bay Times, capturing the laughter, excitement, and sense of belonging that makes this event so special. Following the article, the family of a former client represented by our office nearly 20 years ago reached out to share how much our support had meant to them and expressed interest in attending this year's celebration. It was a powerful reminder that the impact of our advocacy often continues long after the case ends. 

As one client's family member recently shared: 

"It's been almost five years of you being Sam's attorney. You have been one of the few constants in his ever-changing life. I want you to know from the bottom of my heart that I appreciate all you do, big and small. I am grateful he has such a genuine support and light in his corner."

Your support makes these moments possible. 

Help make the season brighter by donating a book through our Amazon Wish List (press "control" and then click on the hyperlink to be taken directly to the Amazon page.) Every book purchased helps ensure a child leaves our Holiday Party with a gift they can enjoy long after the celebration ends.

Every donation helps create a memorable day for the children and families we serve. More importantly, your generosity reminds children that they are valued, supported, and surrounded by a community that cares about their future. 

We invite you to help create another unforgettable holiday season for the children we serve and their families. The impact of your support reaches far beyond a single afternoon. It helps children feel seen, helps families create joyful memories together, and reminds young people facing adversity that they are never alone.

Thank you for partnering with us in this milestone year. Together, we can continue creating lasting memories, lasting relationships, and lasting hope for the children and families who need it most. Your generosity helps ensure that every child we serve knows they are valued, supported, and deserving of a brighter future. 

With gratitude, 

Heather Tager, CLC Team Leader & The CLC Team

Make a donation to the L. David Shear Children's Law Center Annual Holiday Party!

To donate by mail, please make your check out to Bay Area Legal Services with "CLC Holiday Party" in the memo line. Send to:

Bay Area Legal Services
1302 N 19th Street
Suite 400
Tampa, FL 33605

REQUIRED NOTICES:
A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (1-800-435-7352) WITHIN FLORIDA. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. REGISTRATION # CH1969.AS A CONDITION OF THE FUNDING RECEIVED BY THE LEGAL SERVICES CORPORATION (LSC), BAY AREA LEGAL SERVICES MAY NOT EXPEND ANY FUNDS FROM WHATEVER SOURCE FOR ANY ACTIVITY PROHIBITED BY THE LSC ACT OR BY PUBLIC LAW 105-119. BAY AREA LEGAL SERVICES DOES NOT UTILIZE THE SERVICES OF PROFESSIONAL SOLICITORS AND THEREFORE RECEIVES 100% OF EACH CONTRIBUTION.