The demand for support is skyrocketing. In the past year alone, SDRC welcomed more than 4,000 new clients, adding to the thousands of families already navigating financial strain while caring for loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs).
The holiday season is meant to be a time of family, joy, and togetherness. Yet for many families served by the San Diego Regional Center (SDRC), this season brings more worry than wonder. Rising costs of rent, utilities, and necessities often force heartbreaking choices; keeping the lights on or having a holiday celebration with family, leaving little room for traditions that should bring comfort and joy.
The Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD) created the Season of Sharing program to change that reality. Each year, FDD raises funds to provide holiday gift cards to SDRC families in San Diego and Imperial Counties who are experiencing financial hardship. For many, these gift cards mean a holiday meal, warm clothing for a child, or the chance to exchange gifts that make the season memorable.
Meeting a Growing Need
The demand for support is skyrocketing. In the past year alone, SDRC welcomed more than 4,000 new clients, adding to the thousands of families already navigating financial strain while caring for loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs).
For these families, Season of Sharing is more than financial aid; it is a lifeline of stability and hope. One parent shared: “Because of the Foundation’s gift cards, I was able to buy my son a warm coat and a small toy. It may seem simple, but for us, it meant everything. We celebrated without worry, and he felt the magic of the holiday.”
Moments like these remind us why Season of Sharing matters: it allows families to replace stress with joy, and hardship with connection.
A Celebration with Purpose
Season of Sharing returns on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Stone Brewing in Liberty Station, where giving back meets holiday cheer. This family-friendly gathering invites the community to enjoy crafts, games, and plenty of festive fun, as well as the opportunity to connect with others who share a passion for making the holidays brighter for SDRC families.
Most importantly, proceeds from the event go directly toward purchasing holiday gift cards for local families, ensuring they can celebrate the season with dignity, warmth, and joy. Attending Season of Sharing means more than enjoying a festive afternoon; it means standing with families who too often must choose between paying bills and creating holiday memories.
How Local Businesses Can Make an Impact
Sponsorship is at the heart of Season of Sharing’s success. By sponsoring, businesses and organizations provide critical holiday relief while demonstrating their commitment to inclusion, compassion, and strengthening the I/DD community in San Diego and Imperial Counties.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Jill Weber at [email protected].
Celebrating 40 Years of Impact
As FDD prepares to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2026, Season of Sharing serves as a powerful reminder of its enduring commitment to the I/DD community. Over the past five years, FDD has generated more than $1.9 million to fund over 100 innovative programs that enhance the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) across San Diego and Imperial Counties. Additionally, the Foundation has invested over $800,000 in affordable housing initiatives and provided more than $1.2 million in emergency assistance to SDRC families.
Guided by its vision of equitable access and opportunity, FDD continues to create lasting impact through programs like Season of Sharing—building a community where inclusion and potential thrive.
A Call to Action
This holiday season, you can help transform difficult choices into moments of joy—bringing hope to local families. Your support ensures no family is left behind during the holidays.
For tickets and details, seasonofsharing2025.causevox.com
