12/12/2025
I’ll be honest, I’m not ready for jingle bells and hot cocoa. My soul hasn’t settled into the season’s fa-la-la-la-la-las– and I’m getting family Christmas shopping done way too early– even the stocking stuffers– which just feels… weird.
It has been a challenging season personally, but when you add in the disappearance of local neighbors by ICE, the attacks on food, and healthcare, and travel, and… (insert the latest headline here)-- and all the responses required to resource and advocate with impacted communities, it is hard to connect with the twinkle lights, the holiday sweaters, and the reindeer pirouetting off my ears.
Nevertheless! The Holidays Must Go On! I don’t say that tritely. Over the last four years, we have collaborated with local organizations serving the under-resourced members of our community: our Q***r, Indigenous, and Black neighbors in particular. Together, we have crafted holiday celebrations in which the cultural experience of the Community is centered– where children get to see a holiday icon (Santa) that looks like them. This simple gesture of showing up is so essential for maintaining, cultivating, and strengthening communities during this challenging time– and we always need YOUR help to make it happen.
In particular, we still need:
VOLUNTEERSa
TOYS &
SPONSORS
Yes, you can still donate; yes, you can still help. We really, truly, and sincerely NEED you to practice allyship with us!
I guarantee, the twinkle lights will shine just a little bit brighter.
Much love and appreciation, Neighbors.
--N
