Holiday gift drive seeks support for homeless students in Mendocino County

by Sarah Stierch November 21, 2025November 17, 2025

Group of people standing and kneeling in an office beside a large collection of wrapped holiday gifts and a kids’ bicycle, smiling for a photo in front of a decorated bulletin board. — Mendocino County Office of Education staff and community volunteers pose with donated holiday gifts for over 280 homeless school students in Ukiah, Calif. on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. Every year, MCOE rallies the community to donate age appropriate gifts for students who are homeless, working with numerous community partners to make the effort a success. (MCOE via Bay City News)

MENDOCINO CO., 11/21/25 – The Mendocino County Office of Education is accepting donations for its annual holiday gift drive benefiting homeless students across the county.

Now in its 10th year, the gift drive benefits more than 280 students annually. Participating students provide their age and gift preferences, allowing sponsors to easily purchase meaningful gifts. Requests range from clothing and dolls to beauty kits and sports equipment.