The Gift of Giving is a holiday tradition that has touched hearts and transformed lives for over three decades. It all began in the 1980s when Assistance League of Santa Ana joined hands with South Coast Plaza merchants to make holiday dreams come true. Together, we embarked on a mission to provide holiday gifts to families in need in Santa Ana.

By 1989, this event had blossomed into one of our signature philanthropies, a tradition we hold close to our hearts. For 33 years, Assistance League of Santa Ana and our dedicated Assisteens have been in partnership with the Santa Ana Unified School District to identify families in need of support during the holidays.

Generosity has been at the heart of this event. Assistance League of Santa Ana, local corporations, and city organizations have adopted families, and together, we’ve generously fulfilled wish lists, ensuring that every holiday dream is realized. These families are not only recipients of gifts but also guests at a heartwarming holiday event. They have the chance to meet Santa, enjoy face painting, indulge in cookie decorating, partake in holiday crafts, and engage in carnival-like activities.

Over the years, the Gift of Giving has expanded its reach and made a significant impact. The cumulative effect of this incredible tradition is staggering: we’ve touched the lives of 990 families through our Gift of Giving Program.