Adopt-A-Family for the Holidays 2007

Sol Sisters Toy Run to the Arredondo's
23 December 2007
Story by Renee X

Everyone gathered at Jan & Jett's house around 9:30am, loaded up the trucks with goodies, a dinette set, bikes, etc. for the family. Had a brief meeting to thank everyone for making this such a success.

We had a caravan of 16 bikes and 2 big trucks. The ride was short but so very sweet. As well pulled into the neighborhood, we could see people looking curiously as to why there were so many motorcycles invading their neighborhood. They had no clue. We all parked our bikes and trucks and to our surprise the family wasn't home. We tried feverishly to get Fernando on the phone but there was no answer.

About 15 minutes later, we see Fernando driving up. He flashes his lights to let us know he's here. His wife and the other kids are following about 5 minutes behind him. He had to go to Tecate to pick up his kids.

Let the unloading begin! We created a human chain, passing endless gifts that seemed to never stop coming out of the trucks. Carol K managed to get a dinette set donated from LA. The guy agreed and only asked for gas money. Good job, Carol K! Now, the family could enjoy their Christmas dinner instead of using the folding table and chairs they had grown accustom to.

After everything was brought into the house, everyone met the family, introduced themselves, mingled then got together for some photo taking (thanks Bob & Eric). Jan presented an envelope to the family, with cash donations totalling over $500.

Everyone went outside and to our surprise, Aide (mom) asked if she could go on a motorcycle ride. Lilia stepped up to the plate and we got Aide fitted with a helmet.

Next, Lilia took Fernando Jr, Bob took Fernando (dad) and Jett took Alejandra. Aide (daughter) decided she just wanted to watch. I think the mom may be asking dad for a motorcycle. LOL!!! :)

We wished the family a very Merry Christmas, waved goodbye and were on our way. We ended up at the Hometown Buffet right down the road. Jan worked her PR magic and got the family 4 free kids meals and 2 discount adult meals. Fernando and the family were very thankful since they hadn't eaten. After getting home from church, they went and had lunch at Hometown Buffet!

Sol Sisters took this project on and managed to provide the family with more than anyone thought and all within 30 days from the time we met them. This is what the true meaning of giving is! We gave with our hearts.

The owners of the house they are staying in said they could stay until mid-January. We will continue to follow the Arredondo's progress on securing a home and we have promised to help them move when the time comes! Stay Tuned and thanks for your support!