Be holiday heroes for children in care

The holiday season is a time for giving, and one local organization has spent the last decade making a meaningful difference in the lives of children in foster care. Rotary Club of Seminole Lake has been partnering with Family Support Services in providing holiday gifts to children in care.

How it started

Gerry Cachia, Club Director for the Rotary Club of Seminole Lake met with Amber Freeman, WFLA Bloom, and shared the inspiring story behind the Red Sled Initiative. What began as a simple holiday gathering at his home where guests were asked to bring toys for children instead of gifts for the hosts, it has grown into a community-wide movement.

After joining the Rotary Club, Gerry and fellow members transformed the idea into a signature fundraising effort. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Red Sled Initiative has raised more than $700,000 to support foster children throughout Pinellas and Pasco counties.

How it has grown

When asked about how many kids you’ve helped over the years, Gerry says, “You know, that’s hard to say. I would say probably 20,000 to 30,000. For the past four years, we’ve been so happy to be partnered with Family Support Services. They’re just a phenomenal organization. They’ve helped us step up that game, and, you know, you can’t do enough.”

Filling the heart by giving

For Gerry, the most rewarding part is seeing the joy on children’s faces. He recalled watching foster families visit FSS’ holiday toy store stocked with thousands of donated gifts. “That makes it all worth it for me. All the hours, everything we do, it’s for the kids, so it’s worth it.” 

The Red Sled Initiative includes several community events throughout the year, including First Fridays at Seminole City Center, the Haunted Graveyard, holiday parades, tree-lighting celebrations, and the highly anticipated Red Party – a festive holiday gala featuring live entertainment, food, auctions, and community spirit.

The Rotary Club of Seminole Lake continues to demonstrate the Rotary values of giving time, talent, and treasure to those in need. Community members can support the cause by donating, volunteering, or hosting a toy drive.

Watch the full interview here.

Interested in donating, volunteering or sponsoring? Contact jaclyn.citarella@fsssuncoast.org at Family Support Services or for more information on Seminole Lake Rotary, connect with Gerry at seminolelakerotary.org.