'Day of Donating' organized for Dec. 13

Those wishing to share with those less fortunate during the holidays will have an easy opportunity to do so on Sunday, December 13, when a number of non-profit organizations from Fallbrook, Rainbow and Temecula that make it their mission to help those less fortunate gather together for a ‘Day of Donating’ to take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the grounds of the Rainbow Oaks restaurant.

Organized by Fallbrook Honorary Mayor Gail Martin and fellow Chamber of Commerce members Ben and Debby Cossart, the event will offer a variety of ways individuals, families and businesses can help the needy.

“Day of Donating is all about sharing with others that are less fortunate than us,” said Martin. “The economy this year continues to put families and their children into desperate circumstances. We believe by donating what you can, the children will not have to suffer such disappointments as lack of food or gifts this holiday season.”

Martin is pleased that a bloodmobile will be on site at the event to accept donations.

“The easiest way to get involved is to be a blood donor, which is in especially short supply during the holidays. This is a way to save lives!”

At the event, a drawing will be held for a Christmas tree that has been donated, and Santa and Mrs. Claus are scheduled to make an appearance.

More organizations can get involved in the event, provided they are verifiable non-profit.

“The event is designed to grow, to allow qualified non-profit to collect for those they serve,” she added.

So far, the following groups are scheduled to participate:

Life Stream Blood Mobile

For those willing to donate blood and give the gift of life, there will be an opportunity to do so.

Fallbrook Animal Sanctuary

The pet sanctuary will offer a pet adoption area and accept donations toward the care of animals while new homes are being found for them. Most needed items are large bags of cat litter, large bags of Purina Cat Chow (blue), cat toys, Clorox wipes, paper towels, Fancy Feast cat food, Friskies canned cat food, Pedigree or Alpo dog food, a gas dryer, 12x12 cement pavers for the floors of the dog runs, bungee cords, bleach and garbage bags.

Fallbrook Food Pantry

The food pantry will accept donations of non-perishable (canned or dry) food items, as well as monetary donations to help feed the hungry.

Southwest Veteran’s Business Resource Center

‘My Warrior Candles’ will be offered for sale to help veterans. Historically, candles were placed in windows to guide captains of sailing ships safely home to their loved ones and families. Proceeds from the sale of these candles will help crate a fund to support Veterans and active duty servicemen and women and empower communities with the knowledge and best practices to serve veterans, and more.

“For what they do, protecting ours freedoms, this would be a good way to show your support,” said Bob Leonard.

Taking it to the Streets

Miss Fallbrook Christana Monarez has formed this organization which collects donations of goods, clothing, blankets, backpacks, hats and more to assist area homeless. New pairs of men’s white tube socks are encouraged so they can be wrapped as Christmas gifts for the homeless.

Oak Grove Center

This organization focuses on helping rebuild the lives of at-risk children and their families through educating, healing, restoring relationships, building character and instilling hope.

“They need puppets (any kind of animal, etc.), used drums and musical instruments and gift cards,” said Gail.

Toys for Tots

New, unwrapped toys can be donated for the Toys for Tots program, which benefits Marine Corps and Navy families serving at Camp Pendleton.

Straight from the Heart

This organization will be accepting new toys and items for children ranging in age from infants to 18 years old. Monetary donations are also accepted.

Rainbow Oaks is located at 4815 Fifth Street, Rainbow. From San Diego, take Interstate 15 north, exit Rainbow Valley Blvd., turn left off the freeway, turn right on Old Hwy 395, and turn left on Fifth St. From Temecula, take Interstate 15 south, exit Rainbow Valley Blvd., turn left off the freeway, turn right on Old Hwy 395 and turn left on Fifth St.

“There is a grassy area with lots of parking and two entrances/exits for smooth traffic flow,” said Martin.

If you would like to make a contribution, but cannot attend the event, contact Gail Martin at (760) 931-8388.

If your non-profit organization would like to participate in the Day of Donating, email Bob Leonard at [email protected].

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