N.C. A&T Alumni Times

In its third year partnering with Guilford County Department of Social Services, the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University family granted every gift wish for 150 children in foster care this holiday season.

During the Winter Wishes in Aggieland event, N.C. A&T faculty, staff and students gathered at the Deese Clock Tower to fill shuttles and trucks with bikes, sports equipment and toys for children including one little girl, who Chancellor and Mrs. Harold L. and Davida Martin Sr. sponsored this year.

“Adriana asked for a bike, a Hispanic baby doll and a Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Magical Oven,” Martin said during the event. “Although we had no idea what a Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Magical Oven was, we wanted to put a smile on Adriana’s face on Christmas morning, so that’s exactly what we got her.”

Attendees of the event, were kept warm with hot chocolate and desserts as well as holiday tunes from the Blue and Gold Marching Machine and The N.C. A&T Fellowship Gospel Choir. County officials were gracious that A&T was able to provide gifts for so many children in need.

“Know that you have placed a smile on faces and joy in the hearts of so many children during a difficult time of year for these families,” said Laurie Jones, a program manager at DSS.6

Guilford County Commissioner Carlvena Foster said that the Aggies’ immeasurable generosity didn’t only give foster children tangible gifts.

“Not only do they know that those gifts come from great hearts, you’re also planting the seeds of gift-giving in them,” she said.

Martin agreed that gift-giving is important to instill in young people and imperative to those in need and all year long.

“My winter wish is that each kid experiences the magic and joy during this holiday season,” he said. “I am grateful for each of you supporting our efforts in providing joy and granting wishes to Guilford County foster children.”