
For the 21st straight year, Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia’s Office rallied the community to support students at Verde Elementary.
West County residents, businesses, nonprofits and others contributed to Gioia’s annual holiday fundraiser for the North Richmond school, providing books, tote bags and financial literacy materials to all of the school’s 350 students, Gioia said in his latest newsletter. In addition, a mural project led by students and teachers was funded by the contributions.
Seventy donations from individuals, organizations and local businesses made it possible, including from annual sponsor Chevron Richmond, Max Slendebroek of The Lumber Baron Inc., Mauri Concrete Construction Co., Inc., Sims Metal Management, and the Contra Costa County Public Defenders Association. While West County READS provided books, Travis Credit Union providing financial literacy materials, according to Gioia.
On Dec. 10, Supervisor Gioia invited the community his annual Open House Community Holiday Party fundraiser that featured food from local restaurants Gangnam Tofu Korean Cuisine, La Strada, Taste of Ethiopia, Brasil Bistro and Galaxy Desserts. Then on Dec. 13, Supervisor Gioia hosted a party for students at the school with help from teachers, parents and volunteers.
“I’m proud to represent a community that comes together to help others, especially our children and families in greatest need,” Gioia said.
A photo gallery of the Open House party can be viewed here.
A photo gallery from the Verde Elementary party can be viewed here.