SAN DIEGO – Birthline of San Diego County held its annual holiday event Dec. 7-10, spreading Christmas cheer to families in need.
More than 300 vulnerable families received unwrapped toys, food, holiday clothing, books, blankets, diapers and more.
The event took place in the outdoor courtyard at Birthline’s Clairemont location.
Birthline’s current clients — pregnant women and families with young children – were invited to schedule an appointment for the event. Dressed as “elves,” volunteers and staff checked clients in, ensured COVID-19 guidelines were followed, and personally shopped for each individual client.
Toys were provided for children ages 0-9 years. Birthline received all of the toys from the Toys 4 Tots program and local donors. Each client walked out of Birthline with a large bag filled with holiday items.
“Our clients are so appreciative of the support they receive. Countless clients tell me that they would not have been able to provide any Christmas at all for their children if it weren’t for Birthline,” said Jeanne Hansen, director of the Clairemont location.
This year, because of COVID-19, there was uncertainty about whether the event could proceed.
“Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers and staff, the generosity of our donors, and the grace of God, we were able to hold our annual holiday event this year in the midst of a pandemic,” said Samantha Flather, executive director of Birthline of San Diego County. “We were very blessed.”
For more than 30 years, Birthline has been providing extras to its families during the holidays to help ease their burdens and spread the joy of the season. However, Birthline’s services do not end at Christmas. Throughout the year, families receive not only diapers, food, formula and clothes, but also support in providing a safe, healthy, stable and loving home for their children.
For more information about the organization and how to become part of its community of donors and volunteers, visit birthlineofsd.org.
