Our How, What, and Why:

The Wishing Tree started with a simple search that led to something bigger. In 2022, a Rotarian wanted to adopt a local family for the holidays—a way of giving back rooted in childhood memories of relying on school programs for Christmas gifts. But when searching for community programs, everything available was national, statewide, or covered multiple counties. There was nothing guaranteeing support went directly to a local family without being spread thin across administrative costs or distant communities.

So we reached out directly to the Folsom Cordova Unified School District. They didn't have a program like this, but they loved the idea. After sharing our vision with others throughout Folsom and the greater Sacramento area, the Wishing Tree was born.

What started small in 2022 has grown steadily, but our core mission remains unchanged. The district's Families in Transition department works year-round with students and families facing financial hardship, providing services that help kids stay in school. For the Wishing Tree, they connect with these families and gather their holiday wish lists. With the community's support, we're able to fulfill these families' wishes and provide the support they need most—right here in our community.

What makes unique from other “adopt a family” holiday programs:

Families are selected, not self enrolled.

The school district identifies families based on their ongoing relationships with students and their understanding of who needs help most. We are currently not at the capacity to allow families to self-enroll.

Personalized wish lists.

These families often rely on hand-me-downs or whatever is available. For once, we're asking what they'd really like—and your generosity makes those wishes come true.

Completely local.

Through our partnership with Folsom Rotary and the Folsom Cordova Unified School District, every family we serve lives right here in our community. Their children attend our local schools.

Everything goes to your family.

Your gifts stay together and go directly to the family you choose. Each Amazon cart contains items specifically requested by one family—not a general list. Every dollar you donate goes straight to grocery gift cards for families, while the Folsom Rotary Foundation handles all administrative costs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Currently we are trying to consistently help 60 families per year, which is roughly 200-300 individuals. As this project grows and more people in the community help to adopt a family or buy wish list items, we hope to expand the project.

  • This program is through the Folsom Rotary Foundation which is a 501(c)(3). After the project is over, we will confirm the dollar amount you spent and issue you a receipt. Tax ID: 94-3181710. 

  • You can make a donation towards this cause by purchasing gift cards or writing a check to the Folsom Rotary Foundation with The Wishing Tree in the memo. You can mail the check to: PO Box 6774, Folsom, CA 95630. We will issue you a receipt for the 501(c)(3) donation, tax ID: 94-3181710. 

  • The Folsom Rotary Club and the Folsom Rotary Foundation graciously cover all costs of wrapping, shopping for remaining families, and distribution day expenses. All donations and gifts go directly to the families.