More than 2,000 children and teens across Santa Cruz County are hoping for brighter holidays this year. The Volunteer Center’s Adopt-a-Family program makes it easy for neighbors to step in and share joy.
The holidays should feel bright and magical for every child. But for thousands of kids across Santa Cruz County, the season can be filled with uncertainty instead of joy. Many families are working hard just to stay housed, keep food on the table, and get through each month. Holiday gifts, warm clothes, books, or the chance to share a special meal can feel far out of reach.
That’s where you come in.
For more than 30 years, the Volunteer Center’s Adopt-a-Family program has connected generous neighbors with local families who could use a little extra care during the holidays. This year, over 2,000 children and teens are hoping for a bit of holiday magic — and together, we can make it happen.
A Local Family Hopes for a Bit of Magic
David and Sarah never thought they would be asking for help. Last summer, David was injured on the job and is now on disability. Sarah is working two jobs, but once the rent, food, and medical bills are paid, there’s nothing left for gifts or a holiday meal.
Their children — ages 5 and 8 — are asking careful questions about the holidays, sensing that things are different this year.
With a little support from neighbors like you, the answer is yes.
Four Meaningful Ways to Brighten the Holidays for Local Families
Choose a local family and shop from their holiday wish list. Deliver gifts to our Capitola Mall warehouse December 10–15. It’s one of the most heart-warming ways to give.
2. Donate and Let the Elves Shop for You
Short on time? Make a tax-deductible gift and our volunteer Elves will shop, wrap, and deliver with care.
3. Shop Local
Visit participating local businesses to pick up a Wishing Star — each one a real gift wish from a local child or teen. Shop for the item, return it to the same business, and support local shops while spreading joy.
Or host your own toy drive: turn your holiday gathering or workplace event into a moment of community joy. Collect toys, essentials, or grocery gift cards — simple, festive, and incredibly impactful.
Join our merry Elves! Help sort gifts, wrap presents, greet donors, or support holiday distributions across the county.
Your Support Matters
When you adopt, donate, volunteer, or shop a Wishing Star, you’re doing more than giving a gift. You’re reminding parents like David and Sarah that their community sees them and cares. You’re helping a child wake up with joy instead of worry.
As one parent shared:
“We were losing hope… but then people like you show up.
You remind us what community feels like.”
This season, you can help create comfort, connection, and holiday joy for families across Santa Cruz County.
Adopt a family. Pick up a Wishing Star. Donate. Volunteer.
Visit www.scvolunteercenter.org/adopt or call the Adopt-a-Family Hotline at 831-457-9834 to get started.
