UPDATE: As Halloween approaches, Vacaville charities are urgently shifting focus to holiday giving, launching multiple drives to support local families in need. With the holiday season just around the corner, community organizations are mobilizing to ensure that every family can celebrate with dignity and joy.
The Vacaville Fire Department has officially kicked off its annual Christmas Fund, inviting residents to contribute to support local households. This year, the department aims to assist even more families than last season, emphasizing that “every dollar helps us reach more Vacaville residents in need.” Donors will receive a letter for tax records, reinforcing the immediate impact of their contributions. For details and donation links, visit CityofVacaville.gov/News.
In a heartwarming tradition, the Vacaville Christmas Wish program is again matching sponsors with underprivileged children to fulfill their holiday wishes. Each ornament on the program’s “wish trees” lists a child’s name and three desires, ranging from toys to warm clothing. Community members can “adopt” children or make cash donations so volunteers, known as “elves,” can shop on their behalf. Families must register by November 19, 2025, with more information available at VacavilleChristmasWish.org.
In another critical initiative, IBEW Local 1245 has launched its Fall/Winter Food Drive to benefit the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. Nonperishable donations are being accepted at the union hall located at 30 Orange Tree Circle or through their Virtual Food Drive at shorturl.at/9EQ42. Key items needed include canned meats, pasta, and shelf-stable milk. This drive runs through December 31, 2025.
“Now more than ever, our community needs support to ensure everyone has a joyful holiday season,”
said a representative from the Vacaville Fire Department.
Simultaneously, Budget Blinds of Fairfield/Vacaville is aiming to collect 2,500 food items for the Vacaville Storehouse, which provides groceries and personal items free of charge to local residents. Donations are accepted at their showroom located at 57 Commerce Place, Suite D, or can be picked up directly by their design team by November 14.
Holiday festivities will also include the Festival of Trees, a beloved annual fundraiser benefiting Opportunity House, Vacaville’s homeless shelter and transitional housing program. This event, in partnership with the Vacaville Museum, runs from November 19 through December 2. Tree donors can design and donate decorated artificial trees, which will be accepted on November 17 between noon and 6 p.m. at the Vacaville Museum. Each participant will receive a ticket to the popular “Cookies for a Cause” event. For details, visit opportunityhouse-festivaloftrees.com/form.
As these initiatives unfold, the urgency for community support is palpable. With the holiday season fast approaching, residents are encouraged to act now to help their neighbors in need. Each contribution, whether it be food, toys, or financial support, plays a vital role in spreading hope and joy throughout Vacaville this holiday season.
