For 31 years, Making Spirits Brighter has ensured that children experiencing homelessness or foster care in Fresno County enjoy a meaningful Christmas.

This volunteer-run initiative connects the community through a gift-giving tree at the Fig Garden Starbucks located on Palm and Shaw avenues and a festival winter wonderland annual event.

“The project started 31 years ago because I saw a need,” said Making Spirits Brighter founder Joe Martinez. “I grew up in a foster home. When most kids were looking forward to winter break and the holidays and Christmas and family, I didn’t.”

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He continued: “The holidays were a tough time for us because our family wasn’t there. We don’t have memories, we don’t have photos. We don’t have anything to show for that. … Now that I’m an adult, I wanted to do something. I wanted to change that scenario, and I wanted to make sure that these kids out in our community had a merry Christmas and that they have memories.”

Each ornament on the tree represents a child and includes their wish list, often filled with basic needs like jackets and socks.

“They would love to have sweats or socks or just something to stay warm. The children that have been selected for this event are children who are experiencing homelessness, children living in motels, places and shelters. They’re part of the foster care system. So these are not only special kids, but needy kids and very deserving kids.” Martinez said.

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Martinez, who praised all of the volunteers that have supported this event, said, “Nobody’s getting paid, 100% volunteer work, because we believe in what we’re talking about. We believe in this cause. And more importantly it’s these kids, we don’t want to disappoint these kids … They’ve been disappointed already by adults. We need to come through.”

Making Spirits Brighter Needs Donations for Celebration

Their main focus now is their annual celebration. This year, they will transform Hamilton K-8 School into a festive winter wonderland on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 12 to 3 p.m.

The already chosen families will enjoy meals, gifts, stockings, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, creating holiday memories for children who may otherwise feel forgotten.

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With just over a week remaining, the initiative faces a $3,000 shortfall, needing support to feed 300 people amid a budget that doubled this year. Families will also receive grocery gift cards to shop for their households.

A recent donor, the Bennett Family, told Making Spirits Brighter: “I support your Christmas Event because every child deserves to have the best Christmas possible. Not only to enjoy in the present moment, but to also provide this child the positive holiday spirit memories throughout their lifetime. Most of these children will become moms and dads in their lifetime and by providing them the stability of healthy holiday memories now, in their youth, they will be able to provide their families the same beautiful holiday celebrations throughout their lifetime.”

A volunteer, Bev Shuemake, said, “I volunteer for MSB to help bring hope and joy to each child and family member we serve during the Holiday Season. It is heartwarming to see the wonderment in their eyes and be part of making joyful, lifelong memories for them.”

Making Spirits Brighter will also take part in the National Day of Giving on Tuesday, Dec. 3.

To donate or learn more, visit MakingSpiritsBrighter.org or email joemartinezfsno@gmail.com.