As the holiday season approaches, organizations across West L.A. are calling on residents to help support families, seniors, and individuals in need. From food banks to toy drives and neighborhood outreach programs, local nonprofits report a seasonal surge in demand and are seeking volunteers and donations throughout December.
Westside Food Bank Seeing Increased Need
The Westside Food Bank, serving communities from Santa Monica to Venice and Westwood, says holiday demand is among the highest of the year. Residents can support the organization by donating shelf-stable foods, contributing online, or participating in group volunteering and sorting events.
The food bank also accepts financial donations, which allow staff to purchase fresh proteins and produce at a lower cost than retail prices.
St. Joseph Center Hosting Holiday Meal Programs
Venice-based St. Joseph Center is preparing holiday meals and care packages for unhoused individuals and low-income families. Volunteers are needed to help assemble meal kits, sort clothing donations, and assist at distribution events.
The center is also asking for warm clothing, blankets, hygiene kits, and new unwrapped toys for children.
Santa Monica Police Activities League Toy Drives
The Santa Monica Police Activities League (PAL) is accepting toy donations for its annual holiday drive, which supports children across the Westside. Residents can drop off new, unwrapped toys throughout December at designated locations across Santa Monica.
PAL also welcomes volunteers to help with sorting, packaging, and distributing gifts before the holidays.
West L.A. Homeless Outreach Efforts Expand
Local outreach teams and faith-based groups are organizing winter-season supply drives. Items most requested include socks, gloves, jackets, blankets, and hygiene items. Several Westside churches and community groups hold regular street outreach events and welcome volunteers—no prior experience required.
Operation Santa Monica: Adopt-A-Family Programs
Several nonprofits, including Salvation Army Westwood, Westside Family Health Center, and independent community groups, host “adopt-a-family” programs. Donors receive a family’s holiday wishlist and provide gifts, essential items, or grocery cards. Many programs also accept monetary contributions for families who prefer direct assistance.
Venice Family Clinic Seeks Support for Health Services
The Venice Family Clinic, serving tens of thousands of Westside residents, is requesting end-of-year donations to support medical care, mental health services, and food assistance programs. The clinic also hosts seasonal volunteer initiatives and accepts new toys for its annual children’s holiday celebration.
How to Get Involved
Nonprofits recommend signing up early, as some volunteer shifts fill quickly in December. Those unable to volunteer in person can still donate online, support toy and clothing drives, or contribute via Amazon wishlists when available.
For many Westside organizations, the holiday rush extends into January, and donations made after December still help families facing food insecurity, housing instability, or rising living costs.
With dozens of opportunities to give back, West L.A. residents have many ways to support their neighbors and strengthen the community during the holiday season.
