DCS partners with Upstream Collaborative and former NFL quarterback Jeff George to assist foster children and families across Indiana this Christmas

The Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) has announced a new partnership with Upstream Collaborative and Christmas QB, founded by former #1 NFL Draft Pick and Indiana native, Jeff George, to bring hope and joy to foster children and families this Christmas season.

Through this partnership, DCS and Upstream Collaborative will identify families and children currently being served in the Indiana child welfare system. Each selected family will receive Christmas gifts, essentials and retail gift cards, funded through the Christmas QB campaign, to ensure every child feels valued and remembered during the holidays. Jeff’s goal is to help up to 2,000 families this Christmas. 

Upstream Collaborative, a nationwide network of nonprofit organizations dedicated to strengthening families and preventing foster care entry, will coordinate the distribution of resources across its member agencies. These agencies serve thousands of families each year through mentoring, crisis stabilization and family preservation.

“Partnerships like this demonstrate the power of community,” said DCS Director Adam Krupp. “When state agencies, nonprofits and individuals unite around a shared mission, we create tangible change for children and families who need it most. We’re grateful to Upstream Collaborative and Jeff George for their leadership and generosity.”

Jeff George, the driving force behind Christmas QB, has used his platform for over 25 years to rally support for vulnerable families nationwide. He has donated over $1 million dollars to help families each Christmas. His passion stems from his belief that every team needs a leader, and every family needs a quarterback.

“This is more than giving gifts, it’s about giving hope,” said George. “These children and families are heroes in their own right, and it’s an honor to stand alongside DCS and Upstream Collaborative to make sure they feel seen, supported and loved this Christmas.”

Ken Norwood, CEO of Upstream Collaborative, added, “Our mission is to keep families together and thriving. This partnership allows us to extend that mission in a powerful way, meeting practical needs while reminding families they’re not alone.”

Donations for the Christmas QB campaign can be made through www.christmasqb.com with the proceeds going directly to families identified by DCS and Upstream Collaborative members. Together, this partnership reflects Indiana’s growing commitment to strengthening families, preventing crises and ensuring that no child in the foster care system goes without hope or joy this Christmas.