SAN BERNARDINO, CA —– SAN BERNARDINO — The San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) Children Deserve Success (CDS) team brought holiday joy to nearly 200 students experiencing homelessness in San Bernardino County. Children, aged 0-18 years, living in transitional housing and/or foster care were treated to delicious dinners, gifts from their wish lists, winter clothing, books and much more.
One hundred and twenty children living in transitional housing experienced an evening of holiday cheer during the 21st Annual SBCSS CDS Holiday Celebration on Dec. 18 at the Elks Lodge in San Bernardino. Attendees enjoyed dinner, festive music, face painting, balloon animals, and a visit from Santa. While more than 70 foster youth celebrated the season with gifts, tree decorating, a photo booth, a magician and special items generously donated by Anastasia Beverly Hills during the 2nd Annual CDS Making Seasons Bright events on Dec. 9 and Dec. 11. Children from each event participate in the CDS tutoring program at local shelters or participate in the Student Success Partnership at the University of Redlands.
“Our holiday celebrations are about more than just gifts, it’s about reminding our students that they matter, that they are capable and that they are surrounded by people who care about them,” said County Superintendent Ted Alejandre. “It’s a privilege to be able to create joyful and memorable holiday experiences for our students and their families.”
Each year, CDS is able to provide hundreds of gifts to children experiencing homelessness thanks to the generous support of SBCSS employees. Employees who wish to support the event sign up to sponsor a child in need, purchasing items on their wish lists which can include toys and clothing. Both events were also made possible by partnering with the following local organizations: Children’s Foundation of America, Children’s Fund, Elks Lodge #836, Highland Congregational Church, Mary’s Haven, Ontario-Upland Lions Club, Panera Bread, Salvation Army Hospitality House, San Bernardino County Fire Department, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, SBCSS Children’s Assistance Fund, Time for Change, and University of Redlands Student Success Partnership.
Launched in 2004, the SBCSS CDS Holiday Celebration started off small, only serving 25 youth. The celebrations have grown into multiple events that now brighten the holidays for nearly 200 children experiencing homelessness or in the foster care system.
