The Orange County Market Place, the weekend swap meet at the O. C. Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, has teamed up with the Community Action Partnership of Orange County(CAPOC) to help bring new toys and clothing to those in need this holiday season. Those bringing a donation of a new and unwrapped toy or clothing item any Saturday or Sunday from Nov. 28 through Dec. 20 will receive free admission ($2 value) to the swap meet. In addition, coupons will be handed out for a free 4" x 6" photo with Santa valid the same dates ($10 value).
According to CAPOC, a nonprofit organization which has been helping to eliminate and prevent the causes and effects of poverty for more than 44 years, the holidays bring an increased financial burden for those who are already struggling. The cost of living in Orange County is 58% above national average, and over 10% of Orange County's families are living in poverty.
Though donations will be accepted for children ages newborn to 18, the greatest need is gifts for ages 11 to 16 years. Many families request clothing items such as undergarments, jacket and shoes.
Earlier this year the Orange County Market Place coordinated a food drive with CAPOC for the Orange County Food Bank during a spring and fall concert series. More than 2 ½ tons of food was collected at 16 concerts events which offered free admission for the donation. "We are so grateful for the partnership with the O.C. Marketplace. We could not feed the hungry in Orange County without great partners like theMarket Place," said Kristin Kvesic, Donated Food Program Manager.
"We feel strongly about the spirit of giving all year. During the holidays when we have promotions for freebies and special entertainment aimed at our shoppers, we also want to help those who might not be able to shop, "said Jeffrey Teller, president of the O. C. Market Place. "The toy and clothing drive is a great way for us to do that and are honored to be one of the partners with the Community Action Partnership of Orange County."
In addition to the toy and clothing drive, other holiday festivities are planned. For more information on the Market Place and its events visit www.ocmarketplace.com949-723-6616.
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