Plano TX - Dec. 2010.. Every year, single mothers of small children find themselves sitting alone on Christmas Day with no presents to open. They are glad that their children are happy, but secretly sadden because there is nothing under the tree for them. Gifts For Moms, a nonprofit organization that provides Christmas gifts to single mothers, has kicked off its 2010 gift drive with the hopes of providing more than 700 gifts to single moms in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

"This year has been especially tough on single mothers. We have noticed that there are more moms out of work and out of money this year," said Stephanie Ward, Gifts For Moms Founder. "Our goal is to bring a little joy to mothers with a wonderful Christmas gift."

The organization is asking donors visit our Web site to review at the list of requested gifts, make a cash donation or purchase a gift card from a department store, restaurant, or movie theater. Gifts For Moms is also accepting new gifts valued at more than $30 that could be enjoyed by a single mom. To make a donation, go to the web site www.gifts4moms.org, or call 214.774.2194.

This year, the organization has partnered with local school districts and a few private schools to provide the gifts to school-aged children to be given to their mothers. Organizers want the children to take part in bringing joy to their moms. Last year, the organization distributed 600 gifts through social service agencies and during a huge Christmas party.

"We are asking the children to write an essay on what they would like to get their mother for Christmas. The gifts will be delivered to the school and students will wrap the gifts and take them home to their mother," Ms. Ward said. "I know what it would mean to a child to give their mother something more than a school-made craft project."

So far, gift suggestions from children have included a pot of gold, a Lexus, an e-reader, along with more traditional suggestions such as house slippers and movie tickets.

Joy Kerr, a single mother of a 2-year-old daughter, received a gift last year and says she looks forward to the gift drive. "Last year, it was nice to know that I wasn't alone as a single mom who needed help and love ~ and this is just what I got." Ms. Kerr said, this year, she is in a better place and expects to spend this holiday season giving to other single moms.

If you have additional questions go to www.gifts4moms.org or [email protected] or call 214.774.2194.