Holiday Celebrations Across Public Housing Sites

Festive Events and Joyful Toys for Public Housing Residents and Community Members

December 21, 2022 – This month, the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) and local community partners worked together to bring holiday cheer and celebration to Los Angeles County public housing families.

The month-long celebrations nicknamed “Operation Jingle Jingle,” included toy distributions, senior bingo nights, hot chocolate gatherings, ugly sweater parties, and holiday basket distributions. Events took place throughout the Carmelitos, Harbor Hills, Nueva Maravilla, and South County (Scattered Sites) public housing developments. More than 1,100 holiday gifts were distributed to families across the sites. Gifts, including art kits, gloves, socks, and mugs, were also donated to more than 800 seniors.

Additionally, the Community Resource Center in South Whitter also held an annual holiday basket distribution event. Approximately 200 pre-registered families received a basket with a frozen turkey and accompanying holiday foods for a full festive family meal. Toys were also distributed to every child in each family.

These events were made possible with the support of the Shelter Partnership. The CRC event was co-sponsored by Los Angeles County Chair of the Board of Supervisors Janice Hahn, as well as several Los Angeles County departments such as the Sheriff’s Department – Norwalk Station, Department of Probation, and Children and Family Services. Other partners included the California Highway Patrol and local Girl and Boy Scout troops.

“The LACDA is dedicated to bringing cheer and joy to our public housing families and residents in need,” said Emilio Salas, LACDA Executive Director. “We understand that the holidays can be especially stressful. That’s why we take the time to get together gifts and resources for our community.”