When the community’s original Christmas program, VC Cares for Kids, was dissolved in 2020, it left a significant gap in Valley Center—a place where families facing financial hardship had no dedicated assistance program to help provide holiday gifts for their children. Recognizing this need, the Hornets’ Holidays program was created through the collaboration of local business partnerships, generous community members, and the tireless efforts of many volunteers. This initiative matches children experiencing financial challenges with compassionate donors who purchase Christmas presents in a virtual Angel Tree fashion.

Over the past four years, Hornets’ Holidays has proudly delivered more than $160,000 in gifts to children throughout the Valley Center community. Each family participating in the program receives a food gift card to Leeker’s Family Foods, ensuring they have the means to provide a nutritious holiday meal. Every child is gifted a bag of gifts, along with a stocking filled with festive surprises. Additionally, families gain access to the Hornets’ Hanger Clothing Closet, where they can choose quality clothing and essential items to help make the season brighter.

Thanks to the ongoing support of our community, Hornets’ Holidays continues to bring joy and hope to Valley Center families during the most wonderful time of the year.