- February 4, 2026
This past holiday season, Cultural Awareness Fund, Inc. launched Give a Smile, an initiative created to support children and families in need throughout the region during the holidays.
The initiative began at an annual holiday gathering, where guests were asked to bring an unwrapped gift for a boy or a girl, according to a press release. Encouraged by the strong response, nonprofit founder William Sanchez expanded the effort by partnering with local media to increase awareness and participation. With the support of WROD and radio host Frank Scott, public service announcements were produced and aired throughout the Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach and Port Orange area in support of the initiative.
All donated toys were distributed to two organizations serving children and families in need: St. Paul’s Basilica in Daytona Beach and the Volusia Sheriff’s Youth Foundation. St. Paul’s Basilica provides direct support to families in need through faith-based programs and seasonal initiatives.
The donation to the Volusia Sheriff’s Youth Foundation supports youth-focused programs that promote safety, mentorship and positive development for at-risk children throughout the region.
At St. Paul’s Basilica, toys were distributed on the final day of the Christmas Novena, with remaining gifts given during the Jan. 6 Three Kings Day celebration.
“These gifts represent more than toys,” Sanchez said in the press release. “They reflect generosity, kindness, and what can be accomplished when people come together with purpose. I’m grateful to everyone who participated and helped make this initiative possible.”
Give a Smile will return for Easter, when Cultural Awareness Fund, Inc. aims to distribute Easter baskets to disadvantaged children across the region. For more information, call 786-942-4449.
