The Update

Helping Local Families Bring the Holidays Home

For families facing financial hardship, the holidays can bring difficult choices. Groceries and everyday necessities often come first, leaving little room for gifts or special holiday meals. Through the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) Holiday Toy & Food Drive, local families receive a little extra help, comfort, and joy during the season. Rio Grande Credit Union (RGCU) is proud to return as a community partner in this meaningful tradition.

One of the Sheriff's Office's longest-standing traditions, the Holiday Toy & Food Drive brings together BCSO deputies, civilian employees, the BCSO Citizen Alumni Association, volunteers, and community partners with one shared goal: helping local children and families experience the joy of the holidays.

Making a Difference, One Family at a Time

Each year, BCSO identifies families throughout Bernalillo County who are experiencing financial hardship or unexpected challenges. Many are referred by school resource officers, patrol deputies, detectives, and community members who recognize a family in need through their everyday interactions.

The mission is simple but meaningful: help put a holiday meal on every family's table and make sure every child has at least one gift to unwrap.

Community donations help provide toys, winter essentials, pantry staples, and fresh food. Behind the scenes, employees and volunteers work together to organize and wrap gifts, assemble family food boxes, and prepare everything for delivery.

One of the most special parts of the tradition happens on delivery day. BCSO deputies personally deliver the packages to families, sometimes arriving in uniform and with a patrol convoy. These deliveries are about more than dropping off gifts and groceries; they are an opportunity to connect with families and remind them that their community cares.

The Impact of Coming Together

Last year, the Holiday Toy & Food Drive supported more than 100 children and provided holiday food boxes to families across Bernalillo County. With demand increasing this year, the need for community support is greater than ever.

BCSO employees have already raised more than $6,000 through internal fundraisers, demonstrating their commitment to helping families throughout the county. Continued support from local businesses, organizations, and community members will help extend those efforts and reach even more families.

RGCU's continued participation reflects our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve. We believe that when neighbors, businesses, and community organizations come together, even small acts of kindness can make a lasting difference.

You Can Help Make the Holidays Brighter!

Every donation helps bring a little more joy to a local family. Whether it's a new toy, a contribution toward a holiday meal, or nonperishable food items, your generosity can help make the season brighter for children and families right here in Bernalillo County.

We invite our members, employees, and community to join RGCU and BCSO in spreading holiday cheer. Together, we can help bring the holidays home to those who need it most.

Big hearts. Brighter holidays. Stronger communities.