SANTA ANA : Child Welfare Group Seeks Gift Donations

Olive Crest Homes and Services for Abused Children, which celebrated the renovation of its headquarters last week, is seeking gift donations for the holidays.

Since 1973, Olive Crest has had a holiday gift drive for children in group homes and foster care. Last year, the organization took in 1,800 gifts, said Julie Seaborn, the group’s director of public relations.

The nonprofit organization, based in Santa Ana, operates 13 residential group homes and works with 75 foster parents across Orange County. About 350 children, from toddlers to teens, are involved in Olive Crest programs.

Olive Crest hopes to gather 2,500 gifts, or six for every child, with enough left over for birthday gifts through next year, Seaborn said. She suggested calculators, movie gift certificates and clothing as appropriate donations.

Olive Crest, which moved to Santa Ana from Anaheim about a year ago, provides services ranging from counseling to computer labs. The organization was chosen this year by the Orange County Corporate Combined Volunteer Project to receive about $500,000 in donations and volunteer renovation work for its headquarters.

Information: (714) 543-KIDS, Ext. 150.