Sacramento County’s Gifts from the Heart Brings Holiday Cheer to Thousands in 2025

The holiday season is a time for generosity, compassion and community — and in 2025, Sacramento County residents showed up in a big way through the Gifts from the Heart program.

During the 2025 holiday season, the community’s generosity helped 2,487 children, teens and adults in need across the County. Through the support of volunteers and donors, thousands of meaningful gifts were delivered to individuals served by Sacramento County’s Department of Child, Family and Adult Services (DCFAS). Volunteers wrapped and distributed more than 7,400 gifts.

The effort was powered by the dedication of 85 volunteers, who collectively contributed 1,684 hours organizing donations, preparing gifts and helping ensure everything reached the people who needed it most.

Since its launch in 1988, the Gifts from the Heart program has touched the lives of thousands of Sacramento County residents. Each year, community members, local organizations and County staff come together to make the holidays brighter for individuals who may otherwise go without.

The program reflects the spirit of generosity in Sacramento County — neighbors helping neighbors and ensuring that everyone feels remembered during the holidays. But giving now extends past the holiday season, you can still help a foster youth, older, or disabled adult year-round by donating to Gifts from the Heart. Reach out to GFTH@saccounty.gov to find out how you can make a difference.

County employees and volunteers work with community partners and private sponsors to purchase, wrap and deliver gifts to recipients during November and December of every year

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