Adopt a Family for Christmas

The Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County serves as the heart of holiday giving, coordinating with agencies and support networks across the county to ensure our most vulnerable neighbors have the support they need.

To make it easy for potential volunteers to connect with causes they care about, the Volunteer Center launched its annual Holiday Volunteer Guide, where individuals can easily search for volunteer opportunities that meet their personal interests.

Sponsored by Santa Cruz County Bank, the 2022 Holiday Volunteer Guide is at www.scvolunteernow.org/holiday.

“This time of year, community members are looking for ways to connect and make their holiday celebrations more meaningful,” said Christine Thurston, director of volunteer connections at the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County. “There is something for everyone, no matter how much time or money you have to give. If you’re struggling to find just the right fit for giving back, we will help you find the perfect match for your needs and interests.”

The Volunteer Center’s own Adopt-a-Family Project coordinates with the community to meet the needs of about 450 families struggling to make ends meet during the holidays.

One such family is led by Crystal, a single mother of a 3-year-old daughter who is expecting her second child, due Dec. 26. Tragically, Crystal lost her sister to alcoholism two years ago, and as a result, she adopted her now 6-year-old nephew. With two little children and one on the way, Crystal has been pursuing her dream of becoming an accountant and is enrolled in classes at Cabrillo.

Adopters can search for families like Crystal’s, who need help making the holidays special. On the Adopt-a-Family website, donors and adopters can find families and their list of needs. Often, the needs are essential items as well as gifts. Crystal needs diapers and basic baby supplies, nursing tops for herself, and warm jackets for the kids. Her 6-year-old nephew dreams of learning guitar and her 3-year-old daughter wishes for a tea set.

You can adopt a whole family, buy individual items or grocery gift cards, volunteer in the Adopt-a-Family warehouse to wrap and sort gifts, or donate funds to support the project. For information, visit scvolunteercenter.org/programs/adopt-a-family/

“I love helping families who are in need!” said Adopt-a-Family volunteer Jessyka Soto. “Some-times families have hardships, but the children still have holiday wishes. Adopt-a-Family re-minds them that they are special and the community cares…priceless gifts! The joy this pro-gram gives to so many homes is the reason I volunteer.”

Adopt or learn more by calling the Adopt-a-Family Hotline at 831-457-9834.

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Many deserving projects in Santa Cruz County need volunteers or financial support this holiday season. For details, see www.scvolunteernow.org/holiday