Holiday ornament fundraiser to benefit Santa Maria recreational programs

Prominently displayed on the busy corner of Broadway and Cook Street in the Santa Maria, the community Christmas tree is now the centerpiece of a new fundraiser called the “Holiday Spirit Project.”

“It’s a fundraising effort for People for Leisure and Youth Inc., which is a local non-profit that provides support for recreation and leisure programs in the community,” said Santa Maria recreation supervisor Cindy Barcelona-Hoskins. “We wanted to come up with an effort to be fun and something that the community could partake in.”

Funds are raised through the purchase of a special $20 ornament, which will hang on the tree. People have the opportunity to choose one of five different designs and write a name on it. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations are invited to take part in the project.

“It’s just a nice way to honor your family, honor maybe someone who is no longer with you this holiday season,” said Barcelona-Hoskins.

Barcelona-Hoskins noted all money raised will go directly towards helping out the youth in the city.

“The money will go specifically to leisure and recreation programs,” said Barcelona-Hoskins. “A lot of it goes towards helping kids getting into different recreation programs they might not have the opportunity to be involved in.”

Finding positive outlets for area youth has been a point of emphasis for Santa Maria leaders, especially over the past year.

“There is definitely a true need for getting our youth in the community involved in positive recreation experiences and PLAY Inc. is really making strides in offering that opportunity for kids,” Barcelona-Hoskins said.

Ornament sales for Holiday Spirit Project will conclude Wednesday, Dec. 20 at 5 p.m.

Orders can be made the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks office, which is located at 615 S. McClelland Street or online at www.santamariaatplay.org.

Anyone with questions can called the Recreation and Parks Department at (805) 925-0951 ext. 2260.