California Equity Initiative & Edwards Toy Drive Unite to Support System-Impacted Youth in South LA
The Californer/10333638

LOS ANGELES - Californer -- The California Equity Initiative (CalEquity) is proud to sponsor the 10th Annual Edwards Toy Drive, hosted by Together Let's Rise. A cornerstone event in the South Los Angeles community, the Toy Drive brings holiday joy and meaningful support to children and families impacted by incarceration, homelessness, poverty, and cycles of trauma.

Over the past decade, the Edwards Toy Drive has distributed more than 5,000 toys and created a day of celebration filled with games, activities, and community connection. More than a holiday tradition, the event stands as a symbol of community care and collective empowerment for youth who often face profound barriers.

Grounded in its core principles of economic empowerment and equitable access to opportunity, collective power, and community-centered leadership, CalEquity's sponsorship reflects its mission in action. By investing in joy, equitable opportunity, and community-centered support, CalEquity helps interrupt cycles of instability that limit long-term opportunity and equity.

"When we invest in our youth, we invest in the future of equity and generational wealth," said Ava Wright, CalEquity Coalitions Lead. "The Edwards Toy Drive shows what is possible when the community comes together to show up for the next generation, who need us most."

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In celebration of its 10-year milestone, the Toy Drive aims to collect 1,000+ toys and raise essential funds to sustain year-round programming for system-impacted youth and families across South Los Angeles. More than a distribution event, the Edwards Toy Drive creates a space of joy, opportunity, and community connection for youth too often overlooked by traditional support systems.

The California Equity Initiative is honored to stand alongside Together Let's Rise in expanding this legacy of care and community leadership. To learn more about Together Let's Rise and their impact-driven work, please visit togetherletsrise.org.

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About the California Equity Initiative

The California Equity Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to uplift and amplify movements and grassroots efforts that inform and educate, intentionally closing the wealth gap, increasing personal equity and generational wealth, while promoting the well-being of Black people. Through public education initiatives, strategic partnerships, and policy advocacy, CalEquity works alongside communities to advance long-term equity and opportunity across California.

To learn more about CalEquity's work, visit calequity.org or contact info@calequity.org.