Adopt-A-Family Project
As our days grow shorter, many of us shift our thoughts to the joy of the holiday season. Unfortunately, for those families in our community struggling to make ends meet, this can be a worrisome time. Many Santa Cruz County families struggle to meet their basic needs and may go without enough food and warm clothing, let alone toys or other holiday gifts.
With your help we can make the holiday brighter for families who are struggling– including those who lost their homes in the CZU fire, were impacted by COVID layoffs, and those facing a variety of economic and social hardship. This year we will serve 500 families, and independent teens. All of our adoptees have been referred and screened by our 25 partner organizations to ensure that your gift is reaching those most in need.
You can choose to adopt, donate, or give a gift.
Adopt a Family In Need
Businesses, individuals, groups, and families are invited to adopt a family of any size by calling our hotline or choosing a family online. Adopters provide family packages which include food gift certificates, clothing for the family, a gift for each child, and household items like blankets, towels, or sheets. Adopters will deliver these items to our warehouse during the designated drop off days in December.
Our Adoption Hotline Opens Mon. Nov. 9, 2020.
Donate Funds or Gift Certificates
Don't have the time or capacity to adopt a family but still want to help? We welcome cash donations, gift certificates, and items bought from our Amazon Wishlist. Cash donations allow us to purchase the items requested by a family using your funds. Donations can be made via our online portal or mailed to our office. Gift certificates can be purchased from local grocery stores, shoe stores, bookstores or department stores and dropped off or mailed to our Santa Cruz office @ 1740 17th Ave, Santa Cruz 95062.
Volunteer for the Project
A huge thank you to each every volunteer on the project this year. Your efforts helped connect families from all walks of life and you have cultivated a spirit of generosity that helps our community thrive.
View Volunteer Needs & Register
Give a Gift With the Stars Program
Do you have time to get one gift this weekend? Simply pick up a star from our participating local businesses, purchase the gift, and return it to the business Nov. 10th through Dec 12th.
Find Star Locations and Get Involved
Where Do I Drop Off My Packages?
Thank you for adopting a family this year. Visit our Gift Drop Info page for full details including open hours, directions, tips for delivery and our contact.
View the Donation Center Information Page
