South Whittier School District partnered with various organizations throughout December to support students and families with grocery shopping as well as gifts through the holiday season.
Saddleback Whittier Event
On Saturday, December 9th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m,Saddleback Whittier hosted families from two schools, Los Altos and Carmela, for a special holiday shopping event. They ensured that families had the opportunity to participate by selecting and wrapping gifts for their children.
The event went beyond gift-giving, featuring games, holiday videos, and engaging activities for the students, fostering a true sense of community. Parents and kids enjoyed the time together, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere as they prepared for the holidays and made lasting memories.
To enhance the festive atmosphere, Saddleback Whittier thoughtfully provided hot chocolate and pan dulce. This wasn't just about the treats; it was a gesture to strengthen the bonds within our community and show that everyone is cared for. A big commendation to Saddleback Whittier for making the holidays exceptionally memorable for all of us in the South Whittier School District!
Food4Less Shopping Event
The week of December 13th through the 20th eligible families from each South Whittier site received a $150 Food4Less gift card. The shopping event was by appointment and liaisons scheduled and met with families to facilitate a personalized shopping experience.
Zoe Center Toy & Gift Event
Zoe Center donated toys and gifts to eligible students and their families from McKibben Elementary on Thursday, December 14th.
Volunteers from Zoe Center hosted a fun event with food, games, and of course presents. Zoe Center has partnered with McKibben through the past couple of years and even donated school supplies in the beginning of the school year.
SWSD Toy Distribution
On Thursday, December 14th, SWSD held a Holiday Toy Giveaway at the Family Resource Center at Monte Vista.
Ten to fifteen students from each school site were invited to attend this event. During the event parents and guardians were able to shop from brand new donated toys and wrap them for their children. While parents and guardians shopped, students were able to enjoy ornament making and crafts, hot chocolate and pandulce, and they all got a special visit from Santa himself!
The toys were donated by SWSD staff and various local organizations. Community liaisons, school principals, and volunteer staff were in attendance to help families wrap gifts and ensure fun was had by all.
CHP Toy Distribution
On Saturday, December 16th, SWSD families were able to participate in the CHP Toy Distribution. SWSD community liaisons have worked with their site teams to identify five families from each school site to participate in the event.
HOT Bike Distribution
The Hispanic Outreach Task Force H.O.T. allocated 30 bikes for SWSD students this year! Site teams identified eligible students to invite to the bike distribution event that took place on Sunday, December 17th.