CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - The Citrus Heights Police Department is accepting family nominations through Sunday, Nov. 23 and donations of food, unwrapped gifts and other items for its 17th annual Operation Holiday Cheer Family Gifting Event, a community-driven program that supports families in need throughout Citrus Heights.

Donations will be accepted at the Citrus Heights Police Department headquarters, 6315 Fountain Square Drive, during regular daily business hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) through Friday, Dec. 5.

Since the program began, the Citrus Heights community has come together to help more than 680 families, including more than 4,200 adults and children, enjoy a brighter, more joyful holiday season.

“The program’s success is made possible entirely through the generosity of our community,” said a Citrus Heights Police Department representative.

Residents can nominate a family for consideration by completing an online application at: www.citrusheightspd.net or in person at the Citrus Heights Police Department.

A downloadable nomination form is available at https://www.citrusheights.net/FormCenter/Police-Department-24/Family-Gifting-Event-Family-Nomination....

To qualify, the nominated family must reside in the city of Citrus Heights, have at least one child under the age of 13, have an actual or specific need and have had a recent hardship or distressing event during this last year.

This beloved community tradition is part of Operation Holiday Cheer, a series of efforts by the Citrus Heights Police Department and city partners to bring joy, comfort and support to local families during the holiday season.

Formerly known as the Holiday Referral Program, the Family Gifting Event is a collaborative effort between the City of Citrus Heights, Citrus Heights Police Department, local service clubs, schools, businesses and community members. 

Donations of non-perishable food, cleaning supplies, hygiene items, new toys, gift wrap and wrapping materials are most needed.

Every donation, no matter the size, directly supports families here in Citrus Heights, according to the Citrus Heights Police Department.

Whether you donate, adopt or nominate, every effort might help make the season a bit brighter.

Do you know a Citrus Heights family who could use a little extra cheer this year? Citrus Heights residents can nominate a family for consideration by completing the Family Gifting Event – Family Nomination Form.

Completed nomination forms can be emailed to [email protected] or faxed to 916-727-4973.

Nominated families will be selected to receive gifts and a variety of donations that will be collected throughout the holiday season, including non-perishable food items, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items, new unwrapped toys, gift wrap and gift-wrapping supplies.

Donations of gift cards and monetary donations are also welcome and can be dropped off in the Citrus Heights Police Department Lobby during daily business hours or mailed to Citrus Heights Police Department headquarters, Attention: Holiday Cheer Coordinator, 6315 Fountain Square Drive, Citrus Heights, CA 95621.

For more information about adopting a family, making a donation or to get involved, contact [email protected] or call 916-727-4988.