Holiday Baskets is the largest distribution program of its kind in San Diego County, providing a dignified and free "shopping experience" for families who might otherwise receive nothing for the holidays. The program now provides approximately 1,500 local families in need with food, coats, blankets, and gifts for children and more during the holiday season. 

This year, CRC's distribution program takes place on December 19, 20, and 21.

CRC HOLIDAY BASKETS FOOD WISH LIST 

CRC's focus is to provide healthy, nutritionally dense foods by packing less water and metal where possible (for example, dry beans instead of canned beans). Many families do not have access to or cannot afford foods with higher nutritional value. Low or no-salt, low-sugar, high fiber, low-fat items are preferred. 

DRY:

• Pasta (spaghetti, vermicelli, linguine, fettuccine): 5lb bags preferred!
• Rice (white or brown), barley, bulgur, other grains: 5lb+ bags preferred!
• Beans (pinto, kidney, black, red): 5lb+ bags preferred!
• Lentils/Split Peas
• Bagged Fruit & Nuts (peanuts, almonds, raisins, apricots, cranberries)
• Mixes (pancake, bread, muffin)
• Cereal (hot or cold)
• Flour (white and whole wheat)

CANNED: 

• Meat packed in water (tuna, chicken, salmon, chili, stew)
• Fruit (peaches, pears, pineapple in juice or extra-light syrup - no heavy syrup, please)
• Tomato sauce, paste, or pasta sauce
• Corn

DRINKS:

• Powdered milk (1-2 lb boxes) Tea bags (in small boxes)
• Almond, soy, rice milk in cartons Coffee (ground or instant) Cocoa

OTHER:

• Peanut, almond or other nut butter
• Granola/energy bars Fruit/Cereal Bars
• Mac & cheese
• Baby Food

NO GLASS JARS (with the exception of baby food).

 THANK YOU FOR DONATING TO HOLIDAY BASKETS!

All CRC Thrift Stores are Drop-Off Locations!

Drop Off between 10am and 4pm Daily 

Encinitas: 111 C Street (enter at 2nd and C); (760) 753-8222

Carlsbad: 1055 Carlsbad Village Drive; (760) 729-5209

Oceanside: 1405 S. El Camino Real; (760) 231-7909

You can also drop off at our Donation Center: