The entire D-Fenders basketball team rallied to help children and families in poverty celebrate the holiday season at Connections For Children’s Santa Monica office on Saturday, Dec. 19.
The D-Fenders players and coaches wrapped presents, helped families shop, and entertained kids while families selected gifts, toys, and games for their children.
In the spirit of the season, the D-Fenders also donated approximately 500 books and 100 pieces of D-Fenders merchandise to the Connections For Children holiday store.
“It’s so amazing that the entire team of D-Fenders joined us this year. It was exciting for the kids to be able to meet them, because sports heroes are so important to children,” said Patti Oblath, Executive Director of Connections For Children. “Having the support of a growing and developing team really supports our mission to ensure that children grow up healthy and active,” she continued.
Each holiday season, Connections For Children joins forces with local businesses, childcare centers and pediatricians to collect holiday gifts for children whose families receive childcare subsidy. The gift-giving events were held this past Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with the D-Fenders taking part on Saturday.
Since 1976, Connections For Children has provided referral services to families and professional development to childcare providers, helping over 4,000 Westside and South Bay families on average each year. The agency’s goal is to prepare children for success through high quality childcare and early education.
To learn more about Connections For Children and their services, visit www.connectionsforchildren.org.
