On December 20, the Farmworkers Institute of Education & Leadership Development (FIELD) is partnering with city officials, Toys for Tots, Radio Lobo, Kiwanis, and Macy’s to host their first annual Give Back Event. 

The Give Back Event is a holiday toy and clothing giveaway for community members in need. The event will take place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at FIELD’s Training Center at 2240 S. Union Avenue in Bakersfield. 

“We’re very excited to launch our first annual Holiday Giveaway with the help of our generous corporate and organizational sponsors,” said FIELD CEO David Villarino, who leads the organization committed to providing education and training to young people and families in the Central Valley. “There’s so much need in our community for this kind of support. FIELD is committed to creating happy holidays for all our families.”

Santa and his elves will be on hand to distribute toys to more than 100 children, while adults can select from new and gently used coats, socks, and other cold-weather clothing. Toys for Tots will be bringing toys to share, Radio Lobo will be giving away event tickets, Macy’s will be providing some cold-weather gear and Kiwanis will be providing volunteers to help. Community donations from FIELD donation boxes will also be distributed.

Darlene Doughty, coordinator for Toys for Tots in Bakersfield concurs. Last year they distributed some 64,000 toys. “We love to do it because we want to make sure every child gets toys at Christmas.”