During a three-day period last week, officials with the local American Veterans First (AVF) delivered a little joy to veterans in Riverbank, Oakdale, and Modesto. They purchased $100 Visa gift cards from Save Mart and selected a few people within the community to disperse them to so they could purchase groceries or whatever needs they encountered during the holiday.

Organizers reported that recipients were delighted to receive a little extra and for some it resolved how they were going to eat in the days ahead.

The season of giving is upon us and there are people in need that could use a little hope. With several organizations not hosting their charitable events and the pandemic presenting families new challenges, a little help can go a long way. AVF assists veterans year round with food deliveries, along with distributing scooters, providing wheelchairs, essential items, and more.

The Christmas Toy Drive is still in effect for children of the Central Valley Foster Care, Inc. in Riverbank. American Veterans First, headquartered in Riverbank, is reaching out to the community for donations of new unwrapped toys this holiday season for newborns to 18-year-olds, with the collection scheduled through Dec. 15.

For more information or to donate, call 209-863-8480.