"The "miracle" of Christmas is repeated over and over again through the joy of caring and sharing”
              -The Salvation Army.

These are some tough economic times for some and there are those in the community that could use a hand this holiday season. 

Whether it be a gift of toys for the children, food for the elderly or the basic necessities for Oakland’s hard pressed families, the requests for assistance this month has been greater than in years past.  Below is just a sampling of opportunities to share your time, money or goods. 


2011 Toy Run & Party

On Dec. 10, donate $10 or a new unwrapped toy and sign-up at Miscreants Club House at 10 a.m. for the ride, which leaves at noon. Miscreants is located at 20 Hegenberger Place, Oakland.

For more information, contact  Tiki Tex or Pyro (510) 557-0681, miketex7@sbcglobal.net, Joanne@lov.org, program director, or visit pacificislandblood.com. Presented by United Motorcycle Clubs of Alameda County and benefits Tri-Cities League of Volunteers.

Firefighters toy drive

The Alameda County Fire Department and the Alameda County Firefighters Association are looking for new and unwrapped toys, gift cards and monetary donations.  Items can be dropped off at any ACFD Fire Station through Dec. 24. Checks can be made out to: Alameda County Fire Fighters Association
  
Chabot Science and Space Center

The center invites the public to visit the center through Dec. 23 and donate to the Mayor's Community Toy Drive and the Alameda County Community Food Bank. Present the food or toy donation at the Visitor Services Desk to receive $2 off admission.

Also donate new, unwrapped, non-violent toys, books, hats, scarves, socks and gloves, healthy non-perishable items like peanut butter, canned fish and canned vegetables. For a list of most needed items, visit accfb.org.

Mayors Toy Drive

Call (510) 777-TOYS for information

Christmas Dinner

From noon to 3 p.m. Dec. 25 at People’s Missionary Baptist Church, 8825 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. Also call (510) 430-1496 to inquire about volunteer opportunities or to receive assistance.

Holiday store

At Harbor House Ministries, 1811 11th Ave. in Oakland. For information on the Ministries' adopt-a-family program and its unique Christmas Store, click here or contact Tiffany Shieh at tiffanys@hhministries.org or (510) 534-0165, Ext. 206.

Help an infant in need

Loved Twice is seeking monetary donations only to keep their efforts to provide warm clothing for infants and young children. To donate visit their website at lovedtwice.org.

St. Vincent de Paul

The Society is looking for volunteers to assist them in preparing for their annual Christmas giveaway.  Volunteers must be able to make a commitment of four days, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Dec. 13-16; lunch provided each day. Location: 2260 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. There is secure, gated parking available. Call (510) 834-4647 for details.

Even when not stated, all the above organizations are in need of volunteers during the holidays.  Please call or email for more information.