United Way partners with UCSB Arts & Lectures in upcoming Merry-Achi Christmas show at Arlington Theatre for children in need
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The UCSB Arts and Lectures is partnering with  the United way of Santa Barbara County to help spread holiday cheer for children in need.Â
"I’m really excited about this drive and our partnership with UCSB lectures. They’re wonderful partners at the end of every year to help us really finish off this drive," said communications coordinator Marina Gutierrez.
Audience members attending two arts and lectures holiday shows this week will get a chance to donate to United Way’s annual Holiday Gift Drive.
“This year arts and lectures is inviting our patrons to make it a ‘holidate’ with two fun Christmas shows first we’ve got mariachi de sol in mexico on Wednesday, December 6 followed by Samara Joy doing a super fun gospel infused holiday show," said associate director Meghan Bush of UCSB Arts and Lectures.
“Just a touching experience for us here at United Way to see the support that we have from our community come out and participate in this drive," said Gutierrez.
Organizers are hoping the next two concerts will help complete the wish list for local kids in need.
"We love to partner with nonprofits that get back to the community. We bring the arts they bring the soul and together we just make beautiful music," said Bush.
The community can bring a new, unwrapped toy or gift card to donate at the shows.
Gift items may include stuffed animals, art supplies, sports balls, books, general toys and pre-purchased gift cards.
“My hope is that we’re able to fulfill every wish list that we have. We have about 230 this year and they we will also be able to get contributions to help provide these kind of extra resources for groceries, food and clothing for the kids that we serve," said Gutierrez.
The gifts will be collected for distribution by United Way.
Tickets to both shows are available now from UCSB Arts & Lectures, 805-893-3535 and the Arlington and Granada box offices.
