For the last 21 years, Contra Costa County John Gioia’s office has sponsored a successful Toy & Coast Drive for Verde Elementary students, although in recent years the benefit has provided books and hoodies instead.
Gioia calls it one of his favorite traditions. One of his secrets to making it an annual success? Throwing a really fun holiday party.
In his newsletter, the supervisor announced that his Open House Community Holiday Party will take place on Dec. 10 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at his office at 11780 San Pablo Avenue, Suite D, El Cerrito (just north of Cutting Blvd.).
All are welcome and the event encourages donations of check or cash that will go to pay for the Verde Elementary drive, which aims to in part provide books from West County READS to students. Instead of coats or spirit hoodies students that students received last year, this year the goal is to sponsor a youth mural project at the school.
Gioia’s aims to raise $6,000 to cover supplies and student stipends for the school mural, along with two books each for Verde’s 390 students.
Donations are tax deductible. Checks should be made payable to the non-profit “CHDC of North Richmond” c/o 2019 Verde School Drive. All donations must be received by Tuesday, Dec. 10.
“Thanks to great work by parents, educators and students, Verde is a shining light in North Richmond, which is one of the lowest income communities in the Bay Area,” Gioia stated. “We are proud to support the success of these children, and we need your help again this year.”
