BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Exchange Club of Bakersfield is a non-profit organization that started in 1913.
The community service group is gearing up for their Flamingo Bingo fundraiser on Friday. The fundraiser's goal is to raise funds for housewarming baskets, to give to youth transitioning out of foster care into independent living.
Exchange Club is in partnering with Aspiranet, a non-profit organization that provides a blend of family services.
One of those services is providing housing to foster children who are transitioning out of foster care.
"These kids need items," said Donna Schwartz, the vice president of the Exchange Club. "Sometimes they don’t have end tables, lamps or pictures on the wall. It just gives them a sense that somebody in the community cares."
The group's goal is to raise $4,000. All proceeds of the fundraiser will go to creating house warming baskets for the youth moving into independent living. The bingo event is taking place this Friday.
"It's going to be on February 28 at the East Bakersfield Veterans Hall, between 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and the cost is $40," Schwartz said. "It includes dinner and there are prizes."
Peggy Christman a member of the Exchange Club of Bakersfield can be seen creating those house warming baskets. She says there is one reason why she continues to help.
"I just have a heart for these kids because they don’t have anybody to turn to and everybody needs somebody to help them," Christman said.
If you would like to purchase tickets, donate furniture items and toiletries for children transitioning out of the foster care system follow this link.
