The lives of thousands of children, teens and seniors are touched each holiday season by the County’s Gifts from the Heart Program (GFTH). For the last 25 years, this annual holiday gift-giving program has provided gifts to those served by the Divisions of Child Protective Services, and Senior and Adult Services of the Sacramento County Department of Health and Human Services.
“This program has ensured a brighter holiday for children, adults and seniors since the 80’s,” said county Executive, Bradley J. Hudson. “We provide for the well-being of those we serve on a daily basis, but a program like this illustrates our desire to go beyond what is required and enrich people’s their lives as they struggle with difficult times.”
Local community partners and individuals from businesses, local high schools, County staff, government agencies, religious organizations, service groups, professional groups, and families participate in this annual holiday gift-giving drive. Each year, more than 90 community partners donate nearly 10,000 gifts to more than 3,500 children, youth and seniors throughout Sacramento County.
The Gifts from the Heart Program is coordinated through the Department of Health and Human Services Volunteer Services. A team of 40 volunteers manages the pick-up, distribution, and delivery of gifts from the community partners and private sponsors during the months of December each year. Gifts are given to the social workers, which are then delivered to children, teens and seniors.
“I have coordinated this Program for 10 years, and it’s been truly fulfilling,” said Tammy Liu, Volunteer and student Intern Services Coordinator. “The generous gifts and contributions from local community partners and the team work of volunteers have made the Gifts from the Heart Program possible so that our most vulnerable and isolated clients can partake in the warmth of the holiday season.”
The Gifts from the Heart program welcomes all who are interested in participating by sponsoring gifts, becoming a community partner and volunteering time during the season.
Learn more about how to sign up as a community partner, make a donation or volunteer. Brand new toys are welcome and cash donations will be deposited into the Gifts from the Heart reserve account for the sole purpose of purchasing gifts. All gifts and monetary donations are tax deductible. Contact the Gifts from the Heart Coordinator for additional donation and contribution information.
