Easter Joy at Friendly Center
Over 930 Baskets Bring Smiles Across Orange County
Orange County, CA — Friendly Center celebrated the season of giving by distributing 937 Easter baskets to children across Orange County on Wednesday.
This milestone was made possible through the generosity of individuals, faith-based organizations, schools, companies, teams, Friendly Center Ambassadors, and both new and longtime supporters throughout the community.
Festivities took place at Friendly Center’s Buena Park and Orange locations, where families enjoyed a vibrant day filled with music, entertainment, prizes, and hands-on activities. Children experienced the joy of selecting their own baskets from the shelves of the Friendly Marts, took photos with the Easter Bunny, decorated cookies, and participated in crafts. The event also featured a special appearance by the Los Angeles Gentlemen Motorcycle Club, a veteran-led community group, and included the distribution of over 500 new books generously provided by the Miriam’s Circle.
While the day was filled with celebration, its deeper impact lies in what it represents for the families served.
“At Friendly Center, we do more than distribute baskets. We create experiences rooted in dignity, choice, and belonging, ensuring every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated,” said Dr. Kenia Cueto, President and CEO of Friendly Center. “Events like this are often the first step in building trust with families and connecting them to long-term support that creates stability and opportunity. Our ‘Full Shelves, Full Hearts’ campaign reflects something bigger than a single day—it’s a glimpse into how we work to break the cycle of generational poverty in Orange County.”
“Friendly Center is the vessel, and our community brings the mission to life,” she added.
The basket drive initiative began gathering pledges since February through the center’s Easter webpage and social media platforms.
To see photos of the gift basket distribution in our Buena Park and Orange locations visit our Facebook and Instagram handles. You can also visit the gallery of the South County Photo Club, which kindly captured compelling images of the event.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, Friendly Center invites the community to continue its support at the upcoming “Full Fairway, Full Hearts” Golf Tournament, set to take place on July 13 at Los Coyotes Country Club—demonstrating how a day on the fairway can help build brighter futures far beyond it.
About Friendly Center
Friendly Center is a nonprofit human services organization dedicated to providing stability, opportunity, and hope to children and families in poverty. Through wraparound services and strong community partnerships, the organization continues its century-long mission of uplifting underserved communities.