News Flash

For more than twenty years, the City of Artesia Holiday Program has provided toys to more than 200 children in need each year. Last year, with the help of the Artesia-Cerritos Lion’s, Optimist, and Rotary Club’s, the LEAD Foundation, and the Community Christian Center, the City was able to expand the program to include “Project Joy”, a holiday assistance program where food boxes are provided to families at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Project Joy provided 50 Artesia families with a Thanksgiving dinner, and more than 80 families with a holiday dinner box complete with a turkey and all the fixings for a special holiday meal.

This year, the City is once again expanding Project Joy by partnering with local churches throughout the community to reach more Artesia residents who may be in need. We will also be partnering to collect canned food items, allowing the community to come together to provide pantry staples which will help these families beyond the holiday season.

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance with a holiday meal this year, or in need of assistance providing toys to children 12 and under, please pick up a Project Joy holiday assistance program registration form at AJ Padelford Park, Artesia Park, or City Hall. Registration forms collect basic information for children 12 and under, such as age and gender. Eligibility for the program is determined by providing proof of residency in the City of Artesia, and proof of income. Acceptable proof of income includes an EBT card, MediCal Insurance card, WIC card, or proof of enrollment in the CARE or LIRA program through a utility company.

Help the City make an impact this holiday season. Drop off your food or unwrapped toy donations at AJ Padelford Park, Artesia Park, and City Hall. The City will be handing out food baskets as well as toys at the City’s annual Holiday Program, December 21 from 6-9 pm at AJ Padelford Park.