UC Irvine FQHC Holiday Toy Drive Brings Joy to Pediatric Patients and Families

UC Irvine’s Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) hosted its annual Holiday Toy Giveaway, bringing magic to more than 400 children and their families. This celebration was made possible through partnership between with board members, executive council members, UC Irvine Police Department, and generous donors who came together to serve the community.

We are especially grateful to Alliance members Pamina Barkow, Fred Flores, Brandon Ramirez, and Dean Yoost, who exemplified the true spirit of giving, contributing not only financial resources but also countless hours of volunteer time.  Alongside their teams and families, they shopped for and organized toys and then joined families on-site as children's faces lit up upon meeting Olaf, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and firefighters from the Anaheim Fire Department.

Brandon Ramirez shared, “The UC Irvine Health FQHC Anaheim Toy Distribution Event brought joy and hope to local Anaheim children and families, showing them their community cares and making the holidays brighter for everyone involved.”

The impact of this event is beyond a single day. Donated toys continued to bring smiles to pediatric patients at both of UC Irvine’s FQHCs in Santa Ana and Anaheim throughout December, ensuring the holiday magic reached as many patients as possible. Thanks to these efforts, 2025 closed with a true reflection of the Alliance’s compassion, commitment and a shared belief in making a lasting impact.

 Fred Flores, “For over five years, I’ve partnered with organizations like UC Irvines’s FQHC because giving back is deeply personal to me. Growing up with financial limitations taught me the value of generosity, and today I feel blessed beyond measure. This is a legacy I want to continue as long as God allows, because it’s not what you take with you, but what you leave behind. Every smile, every story from a child receiving a gift reminds me why those who can, should give back.”