TAMPA BAY — Bay Area foster parents got a huge "thank you" from Eckerd Connects and their partners as they celebrated Foster Parent Appreciation Day. 

The agency organized drive-thru celebrations at locations in Largo, Trinity, and Dade City. Dozens of foster families were greeted by entertainment, gift bags and smiles that you couldn’t really see under those face masks, but you could easily feel.  

With help from a handful of sponsors, including Angels Against Abuse, the Guardian ad Litem Foundation of Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Rays, Tampa Bay Rowdies, and Suncoast Voices for Children, parents were gifted with items like diapers and other necessities for the children.

One foster family who attended said they were thankful for the kind gesture. 

“We’re not doing it for the recognition but sometimes having that 'hey, we appreciate you' adds so much affirmation that you’re loved, you’re cared for, too,” said foster parent Christopher Duclos. “Because it does get stressful at times and if we’re being 100 percent honest there are rough days, so it’s nice to get that 'hey, we’re here for you, thank you for what you do.'” 

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