Families receive gifts, food for the holidays at Ramona’s Share Your Christmas

Local families came away with Christmas presents and holiday food thanks to the Ramona Food & Clothes Closet’s annual Share Your Christmas Program.

Bags of toys and boxes of food were distributed at the Main Street thrift store throughout the day Dec. 18. The gifts included new toys and bikes, books, grocery gift cards, stocking stuffers, games, crafts and stuffed animals.

Recipients included Cheynne Baker, a mother of three children under 8 years old, who has been coming to the event for a few years.

“I really appreciate the program,” Baker said. “It has helped my family for the past few years, especially in the rough times. We wouldn’t have been able to create a good Christmas without it.

“On Christmas morning I know my kids are waking up to presents. Seeing their excitement and the smile on their faces is everything a mother could ask for.”

RFCC provides services to families from Ramona, Julian, Santa Ysabel, Warner Springs, Borrego Springs and other backcountry communities, said RFCC Manager Vesna Curry.

Age requirements are children from newborn through 12 years old.

Prior to the event each year parents sign up to participate. Only a parent can attend the actual event because typically the items are a surprise under the tree, “delivered by Santa.”

Each child receives an age-appropriate toy, stocking stuffers, book, socks and a stuffed animal. All families receive a holiday food box, which also includes a gift card from Albertsons for their turkey, ham or whatever they choose.

“I have volunteered for the past 10 years and each time the program exceeds the last both in outreach to the community and the Christmas magic provided,” said Heather Sossong, president of the RFCC board, who planned the event with Curry. “This year is no exception with a record number of families participating. We owe an enormous amount of gratitude to our community for donating food and toys.”

RFCC reached out through the VFW and served 15 military families living in Ramona.

“All of our member families are away from home and don’t have extended family nearby. This program helps fill the gaps by providing toys and food they might now otherwise have,” said Tanya Hafer, coordinator for Ramona Military Families. “It shows them that the community recognizes their military service.  They are very appreciative.”