Spreading Gifts of Cheer in Lake County
Annual Holiday Efforts Bring Smiles to Lake County Children and Troops
The Lake County Department of Social Services (LCDSS) and County employees collected Christmas gifts for foster youth, while the Madeiros Toy Drive and Operation Tango Mike provided toys for children and holiday support for our veterans.
Every year, the LCDSS gathers a list of those who could use extra love each holiday season for foster youth ages 2-17. County staff volunteer to provide gifts, to ensure each foster child receives holiday cheer.
Gifts to foster youth ranged from clothing and accessories to toys and games, electronics and gaming, arts and crafts, sports and outdoor activities, music and instruments, and even plants, perfume, and gift cards. This diverse array of gifts ensures that each child receives something special that caters to their interests and needs, making the holiday season brighter and more memorable for them.
The government of the County of Lake’s caring generosity is crucial in making the annual Toy Drive a success, bringing smiles and joy to foster youth across Lake County.
On December 14, 2024, the Joy Madeiros Veterans Museum hosted the annual Madeiros Toy Drive. The museum is named after World War I veteran Jacinto Joy Madeiros, who was known for his caring personality and deep love for children. The museum honors the rich history of Lake County’s military, honors both fallen heroes and living veterans while continuing Madeiros’ legacy by supporting children and veterans in Lake County. The toy drive brought holiday cheer to children across Lake County, distributing new, unwrapped toys in Clearlake, Lakeport, Kelseyville and Clearlake Oaks. Click here to learn about the Madeiros Toy Drive.
Also supporting Lake County’s veterans this holiday season is the United Veterans Council of Lake County through Operation Tango Mike. Celebrating 21 years of service in 2024, Operation Tango Mike, which is military slang for “Thanks Much,” operates from Lakeport with a dedicated unpaid staff. Each Christmas season, volunteers collect letters from Lake County schoolchildren and assemble care packages, including stockings, to send to troops overseas. These thoughtful gestures help ensure our troops feel remembered and appreciated during the holidays when they are far from home. To learn more about Operation Tango Mike, click here.
Lake County’s holiday efforts embody generosity and care. From the LCDSS’ foster youth program to the Madeiros Toy Drive and Operation Tango Mike, County employees and residents spread joy to children and veterans this holiday season.