Many families are struggling, and the holidays, including Christmas, make those struggles more apparent. The Exchange Club of Gilroy provides toys and other gifts for struggling families with children. The families also receive grocery items that are needed to make Christmas more enjoyable. The Exchange Club of Gilroy recognizes our senior citizens for their wisdom, their leadership, and their contributions. It is important to spend quality time with our seniors, not as a matter of obligation, but as a matter of health and connection. The Exchange Club of Gilroy hosts enjoyable events such as barbecues, dinners, and ice cream socials for the senior citizens in our community. Each year Teddy Bears are donated to Gilroy Police and Fire Departments to give to children in crisis. These small stuffed animals provide much-needed comfort toys for kids who need to know that someone cares. Back-to-School Clothes for Kids provides new school clothing to children. The new clothing these kids receive helps them feel confident for the first day of school, but the benefits go further. Getting new clothes for school sends a message to a child that school is important and that he or she is important. It is with pleasure that The Exchange Club of Gilroy co-sponsors this event to take children shopping for new clothes and backpacks. The Exchange Club of Gilroy goes shopping and provides clothing to help support the Compassion Center, which provides access to the services homeless people need to survive, become stable, and achieve self-sufficient lives. The Exchange Club of Gilroy proudly leads the annual Memorial Day Parade, handing out thousands of flags as we walk the parade route to instill pride in our country. The Blue & Gold Luncheon is Exchange Club’s highest tribute to law enforcement officers and firefighters. The purpose of this event is to recognize those public service officers and first responders who have gone beyond the call of duty.