The Franklin County Department of Social Services has launched its annual “Tree of Hope” initiative to support foster children during the holiday season. In partnership with Walmart, a tree decorated with paper ornaments is set up at the store’s front entrance. Each ornament lists the wishes of a child currently in foster care.
Community members are invited to select an ornament and fulfill the listed wishes by purchasing unwrapped gifts. These gifts should be delivered either to the Walmart Service Desk or directly to the Franklin County Department of Social Services at 107 Industrial Drive, Louisburg, by December 12, 2025.
“Your generosity this Christmas is greatly appreciated and will put a smile on a child’s face this year,” said Susan Weathers from the department. Those who have questions or wish to donate toys for other children served by the department can contact Susan Weathers at (919) 496-8171 or call (919) 496-5721.
The event comes as local students continue to face academic challenges. In the 2022-23 school year, only about 14.9% of senior students and 13.1% of junior students in Franklin County school districts were considered ready for college in science according to ACT scores (source). For reading, readiness rates were slightly higher: 23.9% for seniors and 22.5% for juniors (source). Math readiness remained low, with just 12.7% of seniors and 10.9% of juniors meeting college-ready benchmarks (source).
The Tree of Hope initiative aims to bring some joy to local foster children amid these ongoing challenges.
