TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Young adults who have aged out of foster care are getting some Christmas cheer through a statewide program.

Department for Children and Families spokeswoman Theresa Freed says about 600 young people are signed up this year for the Hope for the Holidays program. Donors contribute gift cards and personal notes.

The effort started in 2006 when a staff member wanted to help out former foster children. While they didn’t have much, they also didn’t qualify for assistance.

The program has since gone statewide, with 313 youths reached through the campaign last year.

Hope for the Holidays program consultant Deborah O’Neil said last year, organizers received many thank you notes saying that the program’s gift was the only one they got for Christmas.