John Foster Benoit donates to local organizations serving children in West Baton Rouge

CASA of the 18^th JDC is one of four local organizations to receive a large donation of Squishmallow stuffed animals from John Foster Benoit, an Addis and West Baton Rouge native who was the most recent runner-up in American Idol. The local singer and music artist gathered organizations from West Baton Rouge who serve local children in need to make the announcement and donation to CASA of the 18^th JDC, the Anderson Family Christmas Toy Drive, West Baton Rouge Santa’s Helpers and the West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office.

“We are grateful for John Foster’s continued support of CASA of the 18^th JDC,” stated Kendall Hebert, executive director for the program. John Foster Benoit made a financial contribution to the organization’s CASA Closet last Christmas, which allowed the organization to purchase items for children’s birthdays, first-time visits with their CASA volunteer, graduations and other special occasions. “He truly cares about his community, and because of his generosity, children in our community will have a brighter Christmas and holiday season.”

CASA of the 18^th JDC provides court-appointed volunteer advocacy for children in foster care due to abuse or neglect. The program was founded in September 2023 and is the last CASA program to form within the state. “We’re growing our program, services and outreach to ensure every child in foster care has the opportunity to have a CASA advocate,” Hebert stated.

To learn how you can help #ChangeAChildsStory, call 225.257.9558, or visit www.casa18jdc.org.