The holidays are a season full of giving, and since 1982 the Turlock Christmas CanTree Project has contributed to the city’s efforts of making a difference for those in need through its annual breakfast fundraiser.

Every year, CanTree joins Turlock Together and the Salvation Army in the fight against holiday hunger, with Turlock Realtor Network members volunteering their time to raise funds to help support the cause. The CanTree breakfast is just one way that the three organizations are able to provide families with food baskets to enjoy.

“The Christmas CanTree breakfast is a great tradition,” said local realtor and CanTree volunteer Scott Snyder. “Our mission has not changed much over the years, and our message is very simple.”

“If we don’t find generosity in our hearts, some won’t find it at the table or under the tree,” is the motto for this year’s breakfast. Food baskets made possible by funds raised are designed to feed a family of four for up to two weeks, and are meant to provide extra help for families who have children out of school for Christmas vacation.

“We fill the baskets with the basic staples to help make quality meals for them,” said Snyder.

The Salvation Army identifies families in need of the baskets, which are then distributed by Turlock Together. Typically, Turlock Together distributes between 1,800 and 2,000 food baskets each year, and Snyder hopes to see the numbers repeated this holiday season. It is the Realtor network’s hope that this year’s CanTree breakfast will raise at least $22,000 to help support basket distribution.

The CanTree breakfast will feature a performance from the Turlock High School choir, and Turlock Unified School District Superintendent Dana Trevethan will speak at the event.

“My hope is that she will share some experiences with our local families,” said Snyder. “We really see her being a great connection to our community and knowing some of the immediate needs of those families.”

A professional auctioneer is sure to capture everyone’s attention during the event’s auction, which will feature up to 40 items. Tickets will also be available to purchase for silent auction items. CanTree is still accepting auction items, which can be dropped off at Ambeck Mortgage (1401 Geer Road), Aspire Home Real Estate (2101 Geer Road) or Exit Realty (600 E. Main St.). Tickets to the breakfast are $5 and can be purchased at these locations as well, or at the door on the day of the event.

“It’s a great event,” said Snyder. “The Turlock Realtor Network is honored and considers it a huge privilege to lead the way in raising funds for local families and the food baskets.”

The CanTree breakfast will be held from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Dec. 7 at the Salvation Army Community Center, 893 Lander Ave.