Although the expense prohibited gifting asked for X-Boxes and other high-priced electronic games, there were plenty of bicycles and tricycles - even one electric scooter - that brought joy during the separate Christmas celebrations. “We were able to purchase a Karaoke machine for one child” who has a deep interest - and budding talent - for singing, said Campos, who said that shopping for her own children was especially challenging this year due to the short supply of various adolescent must-have items.“This is the first year CEDC has done this,” and it is among new activities and programs that the affordable housing development company is launching. Campos said that CEDC is establishing Jr. Achievement, Neighborhood Watch, tour and tutoring programs that will include the company’s latest development, the 24-unit Vista Hermosa that offers a mix of for-sale and rental condominiums.Josue Rodriguez, a maintenance worker from CEDC’s Meta Street farmworker apartments in Oxnard, played Santa for the celebrations that included refreshments and plenty of Christmas cheer. Donors included Limoneira Co., Wholesale & Appliance, Santa Paula Lock & Key, Frank’s Hardware, Channel Islands Carpet Cleaning, Pamela’s Tea Room, Tlaquepaque Restaurant, and SK Jonberg Controls.“Those who donated were very generous,” said Campos, demonstrating a strong spirit of giving to those children who required extra attention this holiday season.
CEDC, local businesses make Christmas brighter for area children
December 27, 2006
Santa Paula News
It’s holiday time and the Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation added to the joy of the season by spreading holiday cheer to some children who might otherwise not have received gifts in the season of giving.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesIt’s holiday time and the Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation added to the joy of the season by spreading holiday cheer to some children who might otherwise not have received gifts in the season of giving. “We checked our list twice,” said Monica Campos who, with Kris Doyle - both are CEDC Resident Managers - was been kept busy wrapping presents and planning the two holiday celebrations for residents of Casa Garcia and Yale Street Apartments.“We’re really grateful for some last minute donations that were awesome,” that brightened Christmas for about 30 children living at the two complexes. Families requesting gifts were pre-qualified as to need, and each child made a wish list of three items for Santa’s consideration.“CEDC got them each one present that they really wanted.... We wrapped them and tried to make sure everyone got at least one of the items they wanted,” said Campos.