Looking To Spread Holiday Cheer? Try Adopting a Local Family

Photo by Juliana Malta on Unsplash

Economic inequality in San Francisco is not news. The Bay Area is home to some of the richest and poorest families in the country, and it’s easy to get stuck in the mindset that it’s all beyond your control. You, alone, are not going to cure housing insecurity or addiction, but you can make the holidays happier for a family that needs help.

For 22 years, Compass Family Services has been matching big-hearted elves with folks who could use a little end of year cheer through its Adopt-a-Family program. The organization advises that donors should expect to spend $150-$200 per family member, and offers options to sign up as an individual or part of a group, adopting families ranging from two members to more than 40 members.

Adopted families submit a holiday wishlist, which could include everything from toys and clothes to household items or medical care. (Grandma needs dental work? You’ll find it on the wishlist.) Compass gives donors lots of helpful information, such as each family member’s favorite activities and colors, as well as clothing and shoe sizes. Donors purchase a combination of clothing, fun items, and gift cards for each family member, plus restaurant or activity gift cards or museum memberships.

Compass is still accepting Adopt-a-Family donor registrations online; sign up on your own, or assemble your friends into a merry gift-giving band to finish 2019 on a high note. It is easily the best money you will spend all year.