A child's handwritten wishlist and their story..
There are currently 4,775 youth experiencing homelessness throughout Los Angeles County this year, a 19% increase over the previous year.
The initiative was born out of our commitment to ensure students experiencing housing insecurity and hardships feel seen during the holiday season. To achieve this, we partnered up with local school counselors who work directly with foster and homeless youth to provide personalized Christmas Gifts.
Counselors were asked to nominate students most in need to submit a handwritten "Letter to Santa" listing items they wished to have this Christmas. By partnering with local schools and community organizations, we were able to identify students of all ages in need 4, 5, 15, and even 2 years old asking for sweaters, notebooks and even gift cards for their parents to purchase groceries.
"I wish I could have a blanket" - Oscar, 10 years old We were deeply moved by the student's requests. Over 45 submissions were received, and with the help of our community members, educators, and corporate sponsors' over 200 gifts were purchased. It was beautiful to see how one person, one gesture, and one donation at a time, joy and change can soar over 45 families.
The abundance of gifts led us to host our first ever annual Gift Wrapping Event. This event could not of been possible without the support and generosity of Ms. Leslie P. McGee, Assistant Principal of Secondary Counseling Services at Cesar E. Chavez Technology Prep Academy High School. This event was crucial in ensuring that all gifts were wrapped and prepared in time for Christmas day.
We were humbled to have seen so many students and community members participate in the gift wrapping event. This initiative highlighted the importance of unity in the community. It shows that when we come together and put our resources and talents to good use, we can make a significant impact.
We want to thank all of our supporters who donated their time, resources, and money to make this initiative possible. You have truly made a difference in the lives of these children, and we cannot thank you enough.
Looking ahead, we are excited to continue this initiative, and partnering up with members in our community to continue making it happen! We hope that you will join us in our mission.
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