UPDATE: As Halloween approaches, Vacaville charities are urgently shifting focus to holiday giving, launching critical drives to support families in need. With the demand for assistance at an all-time high, local organizations are mobilizing to ensure that every household can celebrate the season with dignity and hope.
The Vacaville Fire Department has kicked off its annual Christmas Fund, aiming to surpass last year’s support for families. Community members are encouraged to donate, as every dollar raised will directly help more residents in need. The department affirmed, “All donors will receive a letter for their tax records.” Residents can find donation details at CityofVacaville.gov/News.
For over 40 years, the Vacaville Christmas Wish program has been a beacon of hope, matching sponsors with underprivileged children to make holiday dreams a reality. Participants can adopt children from the program’s “wish trees,” each adorned with a child’s name and three wishes, ranging from toys to warm clothing. Families interested in receiving assistance must apply by November 19, 2025, with registration details available at VacavilleChristmasWish.org.
In tandem with these efforts, IBEW Local 1245 has launched its Fall/Winter Food Drive to benefit the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. Nonperishable items are urgently needed, with donations accepted at the union hall located at 30 Orange Tree Circle or online via their Virtual Food Drive. The drive runs through December 31, 2025, and requested items include canned meats, vegetables, and shelf-stable milk.
Additionally, Budget Blinds of Fairfield/Vacaville aims to collect 2,500 food items for The Vacaville Storehouse, which provides essential groceries and personal items to local residents. Donations can be made at their showroom at 57 Commerce Place, Suite D, or picked up directly by their design team until November 14.
The spirit of giving continues with the Festival of Trees, benefiting Opportunity House, Vacaville’s homeless shelter and transitional housing program. This fundraiser, in collaboration with the Vacaville Museum, runs from November 19 through December 2. Tree donors are invited to design and donate decorated artificial trees, which can be dropped off on November 17 between noon and 6 p.m. at the Vacaville Museum. Each participant receives a complimentary ticket to the “Cookies for a Cause” event. More details can be found at opportunityhouse-festivaloftrees.com/form.
As the holiday season approaches, the call for community support is more urgent than ever. With multiple initiatives underway, Vacaville residents are encouraged to contribute in any way they can, ensuring that the joy of the season reaches every family in need. The collective efforts of these local organizations highlight the spirit of unity and compassion that defines the community, affirming that together, they can make a significant difference in the lives of many.
