-Editorial
Community organizations across the Imperial Valley stepped up during the Christmas season to support children, families, and individuals facing hardship, organizing toy drives, holiday meals, and outreach efforts aimed at meeting basic needs and spreading goodwill.
During the Christmas season, numerous organizations planned and carried out a wide range of activities aimed at spreading kindness and support throughout the community. Through careful organization, fundraising efforts, and volunteer-driven service, these groups worked to assist children, families, and individuals in need during the holidays.
MANA de Imperial Valley marked the season by organizing a toy drive through its HerMANAS network. Donated gifts were delivered to the Calexico Neighborhood House to support children and families in Calexico.
The Salvation Army of Imperial Valley led several large-scale holiday initiatives, including a Community Christmas Lunch that brought together volunteers and partner organizations to serve hot meals and dessert.
More than 500 plates were prepared and distributed to residents, with organizers emphasizing the importance of ensuring that community members did not feel isolated or forgotten during the holidays. Volunteers and partners included the Rotary Club of El Centro, local Interact and Sparks clubs, and participants from Calipatria Correctional Institution.
In a separate event earlier in the season, the Salvation Army distributed toys and essential items to more than 500 children. Each child received several toys, while families were also provided with clothing, food, drinks, and other resources. Salvation Army representatives described the event as an effort to offer not only material assistance but also a sense of dignity and hope during a time of increased financial strain for many households. Volunteers assisted with setup, distribution, and cleanup.
The Brown Bag Coalition organized volunteers to wrap 100 Christmas gifts for individuals experiencing homelessness in Calexico and El Centro. Participants included members of the newly formed CASA Club at Calexico High School, the Imperial Valley Social Justice Committee, the American Civil Liberties Union, Imperial Valley Equity & Justice, the Imperial Liberation Coalition, QueerCasa, and Planned Parenthood Generation Action San Diego State University Imperial Valley Campus.
In addition to gift distribution, the Brown Bag Coalition prepared first aid kits using donated medicine bottles and red pouches. The kits included hygiene and safety items such as hand sanitizer, peroxide, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, wipes, flashlights, and other essentials intended for people living without stable housing. Organizers encouraged residents to collect and donate suitable medicine bottles year-round to support future outreach efforts.
