Free money for college!

More than 60% of public-school students in grades 2-12 eligible for up to $1,500

By Vanessa Vizard, Vizard Marketing & PR

Sacramento, CA — As the year comes to a close and families begin setting goals for the year ahead, California is reaffirming its commitment to young people through CalKIDS, the California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program. Backed by a $2 billion statewide investment for more than five million children, CalKIDS is the largest education-focused asset-building effort in the nation, providing automatic scholarship accounts to millions of California children and students to help pay for college or career training after high school.

As families think about meaningful gifts this holiday season and prepare for the opportunities a new year brings, claiming a CalKIDS Scholarship Account is a simple step with a lasting impact. Eligible children and students can receive between $175 and $1,500 in free scholarship funds, with no application, no essays, and no income verification required. These funds are already set aside for children and students and can be used for qualified higher education expenses, making CalKIDS one of the most accessible scholarships available to California families.

“CalKIDS has been an amazing success, with nearly 1 million scholarship accounts already claimed by California families,” said State Treasurer Fiona Ma, CPA, Chair of the ScholarShare Investment Board, which administers CalKIDS. “As we look ahead to the new year, families across the state still have a tremendous opportunity to claim scholarship dollars already set aside for their children and students, funds that can help lower the cost of college or career training and expand what’s possible for their future.”

More than 60% of public-school students in grades 2 through 12 are eligible for a CalKIDS Scholarship Account worth up to $1,500.  When CalKIDS launched in 2022, the program awarded scholarship accounts to students from elementary school to high school, meaning current college students may also be able to claim and use their CalKIDS Scholarship funds today. Awardees can use their funds until age 26.

Additionally, 100% of newborns born on or after July 1, 2022 in California automatically receive a CalKIDS Scholarship Account worth up to $175. This includes an initial scholarship awarded at birth, with additional incentives available when families claim the account and link it to a ScholarShare 529 College Savings Plan where they can continue saving on their own.

CalKIDS Scholarships can be used for tuition and fees, required books and supplies, computer equipment, and other qualified education expenses at accredited institutions nationwide making CalKIDS one of the simplest and most flexible scholarships students can claim this holiday season and in the year ahead.

To date, CalKIDS scholarship funds have been used by nearly 150,000 students towards their academic success at a college or career training program. For one awardee, Bryan a student at California State University, Fullerton, CalKIDS was described as: “A financial ease into pursuing a degree.”

How Students and Families Can Claim a CalKIDS Scholarship:

Claiming a CalKIDS Scholarship takes only a few minutes at CalKIDS.org.

• For public school students, including those who are now college-aged, families will need the Statewide Student Identifier (SSID), a 10-digit number found on school portals, report cards, or by contacting the public school the student attended during the 2021–22, 2022–23, or 2023–24 academic years.
• For children born in California on or after July 1, 2022, families will need the child’s date of birth and the Local Registration Number, a 13-digit number found on the birth certificate.

Once an account is claimed, families can log in at any time to view their scholarship balance, link it to a ScholarShare 529 account, learn how the funds can be used, and request a disbursement once the student is enrolled in higher education or career training.

CalKIDS reflects California’s long-term commitment to expanding opportunity, reducing education costs, and investing early in the success of its young people.

Families are encouraged to check if they have a CalKIDS Scholarship Account available to claim this holiday season by visiting CalKIDS.org.

About CalKIDS: The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) is the nation’s largest child development account program, providing scholarships for higher education. Administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, and Chaired by State Treasurer Fiona Ma, CPA, the program is designed to promote the pursuit of higher education statewide by empowering families to build assets, nurture savings habits, and raise their educational aspirations. Eligible public school students can receive CalKIDS Scholarships worth up to $1,500 and every child born in California on or after July 1, 2022, is awarded a CalKIDS Scholarship worth up to $175, ensuring more families have the resources needed to support their children’s education. To learn more, visit CalKIDS.org.

In partnership with Showers of Blessings Prayer and Outreach Ministries

By Allen D. Payton

Join NFL football running back and Antioch High School standout, Najee Harris on Saturday, Dec. 20 for Da Bigger Picture Foundation’s Christmas Toy Drive in partnership with Showers of Blessings Prayer and Outreach Ministries.

“Come join us this holiday as we will be partnering up and passing out toys,” Harris said. “Limited toys so come early.”

The event will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Noon at 2220 A Street, Unit B in Antioch.

In college, Najee played for the national champions Alabama Crimson Tide then was drafted by and played for the Pittsburg Steelers in the NFL. He is currently a running back for the Los Angeles Chargers on a one-year contract but has been out for the season since September due to a torn Achilles.

About Da Bigger Picture Foundation

Formed in 2021, according to greaterthanthegame.org, Da Bigger Picture Foundation is “a non-profit that focuses on assisting underserved families in reaching their potential and goals. The foundation’s hope is to provide tools and assistance to families facing challenging times. Some of the key areas of focus will be education, homelessness, addressing hunger, and utilizing sports as a platform to develop life skills.”

Follow Najee and his foundation at www.instagram.com/dbpfoundation.

About Showers of Blessings Prayer and Outreach Ministries

We are an outreach ministry that feeds those in need. We give out free groceries on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Learn more at www.facebook.com/thereshallbeshowers.

By Allen D. Payton

According to the Antioch Unified School District, “despite chilly conditions, hundreds turned out for the 49th annual Holiday Run & Walk for Health.

“Founded by Tom Torlakson, former State Superintendent of Schools, the event was held on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at Contra Loma with many of our students running the race, including several high school cross country runners.

“Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of the Delta-Antioch and the Rotary Club of the Delta, proceeds benefit our schools and community.”

Race Director Mike Green shared the following results of two races:

Male 3-Mile Race Winners

Giancarlo Olmedo – 15 years old – 19:31.5

Jailen Johnson-Truitt – 18 – 20:09.3

Dennis Gavrilenko – 22 – 20:26.3

Female 3-Mile Race Winners

Valeria Espinoza – 20 – 19:43.0

Kylie Wisely – 17 – 21:27.8

Jaelyn Wilkins – 17 – 22:53.8

Green offered “Special thanks to East Bay Regional Parks District / Contra Loma for helping us host this event. Thank you to the Race Directors from Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs of the Delta, and to our event sponsor, Dr. Ali Shirani.”

See more photos on the AUSD Facebook page.

By Allen D. Payton

During the Brentwood Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 29, 2025, Tiffany Stewart, founder of Antioch-based Virtuous Voices Music Academy, was a featured singer, delighting audiences at one of the community’s most beloved holiday events.

“Coach Tea”, as she’s referred to, performed Jesus is the Reason.

Her performance highlighted the growth of Virtuous Voices, a music program serving diverse students locally and nationwide through online and in-person voice training, group classes and the academy’s signature, Sing Theory program.

“Sharing my voice at the parade is a celebration of what music brings to our communities,” said Stewart. “I hope young singers feel inspired to step into their own musical journey.”

For more information about Coach Tea and Virtuous Voices Music Academy visit www.virtuousvoices.com or see their ad on the right side of this page.

Four locations including Antioch on Saturday

By Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

THIS WEEKEND!

Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and the United Professional Firefighters Association of Contra Costa County Local 1230 are partnering to collect new, unwrapped toys for children in our communities!

Celebrate the season with Santa at one of his four stops across the county! Donate a toy, enjoy cookies and cocoa, and meet your local firefighters!

Fire Station 10- 2955 Treat Blvd., Concord
Friday, December 19, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Fire Station 82- 196 Bluerock Drive, Antioch
Saturday, December 20, 10:00 AM – Noon

Fire Station 92- 201 John Muir Parkway, Brentwood
Saturday, December 20, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Fire Station 76- 1680 Refugio Valley Road, Hercules
Sunday, December 21, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

For more information about Con Fire visit www.cccfpd.org.

For rental information contact Royal Banquet and Event Halls at (925) 732-3333 or visit www.royalbanquetbayarea.com.

For newborns – 17 year olds; Register by Dec 17 at 11 p.m.

La recolección de juguetes será el Domingo 21 de Diciembre

Puede registrarse antes del 17 de Diciembre a las 11 p.m.

Para recién nacidos hasta jóvenes de 17 años

Presented by One Day At a Time and Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K.

ANTIOCH — IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN!

Hope In Motion is back, and this year, we’re pouring even more love, purpose and community spirit into our holiday tradition! One Day at A Time is collaborating with Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K. to bring joy to kids in Antioch.

The toys collected during the successful Toy Drive and Car Show by Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K. at Lumpy’s Diner in Antioch on Sunday, Dec. 14. will be distributed this Sunday, Dec. 21. (Details below) (See more photos on the AntiochHeraldCA Facebook page. Click the View post button)

This season, we’re wrapping support around the youth and communities throughout Antioch, not just to give toys, but to offer hope, connection and a reminder that none of us are in this alone.

In times when the world feels divided, we choose unity. When resources feel scarce, we choose generosity. This event is not about what we give it’s about why we give. It’s about building a community where every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated.

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT

To make this year’s event possible, we are calling on individuals, organizations, and businesses who believe in investing in their community:

• Donations of new or gently used toys
• Clothing, warm wear, and accessories
• Books that inspire, educate, and uplift
• Volunteers ready to serve with heart
• Business Sponsors who want to make a lasting impact

Whether it’s just support, in-kind contributions, or resources your business can provide, sponsorships help us expand our reach and multiply the joy we can deliver to local families. This is an opportunity for businesses to stand with Antioch, support our youth, and be visibly part of something meaningful.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

• Photos with Santa
• Donuts & Light Beverages
• Toy Distribution for Local Families
• A joyful, uplifting, community-centered experience
• Our mission is simple:
• No child without a gift. No family left out. No community forgotten.

Hope is more than a word — it’s action.

REGISTRATION DETAILS

You do have to register for it by filling out the form at Toy Drive Distribution. Please fill out this form by December 17th at 11pm! This is open to Antioch Residents Only! 

The toy pick-up will be on Sunday, December 21st between 2 – 5 pm at the Antioch High School Gymnasium at 700 W. 18th Street. Please make sure to bring your ID and proof of residency!

This is for newborns – 17 year olds.

For more information please contact John Mixon at (925) 339-3844 or John.mixon@odatec.org.

PORFAVOR LEA TODA LA INFORMACION DETALLADAMENTE. 

One Day at A Time está colaborando con Newberry’s Block para llevar alegría a los niños de su comunidad. Tendremos una colecta de juguetes, ¡debe registrarse! Puede registrarse completando este formulario. ¡Complete este formulario antes del 17 de Diciembre a las 11 p.m.! ¡Esto está abierto solo para residentes de Antioch!

La recolección de juguetes será el Domingo 21 de Diciembre entre las 2 y las 5 p. m. en el gimnasio de la escuela Antioch High School, 700 W. 18th Street. ¡Asegúrese de traer su identificación y comprobante de residencia!

Esto es para recién nacidos hasta jóvenes de 17 años. 

Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Athziri Martinez (925)565-2809 o athziri.martinez@odatec.org.

About One Day At a Time

One Day at a Time provides Latino youth and young adults of color with Hope, Support, Healing and Opportunity to realize their strengths, their self-worth, and their power.

Your donations, your sponsorship, your service — all of it fuels change. Together, let’s create a season filled with dignity, joy, and unforgettable memories for the families of Antioch. For more information visit www.odatec.org/.

About Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K.

Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K. is a non-profit organization providing underprivileged children the opportunity to participate in sports by sponsoring scholarships & equipment to youth programs Benefiting Leagues Offering Children Kindness. For more information call (925) 783-6050, email newberrysblock@yahoo.com or visit www.facebook.com/NewberrysBlock.

#HopeInMotion #AntiochUnited #CommunityStrong #GiveHopeNotJustGifts #OneCityOneFamily #MerryChristmas

Join former 49er Jeremy Newberry for Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K. 2025 Toy Drive & Car Show! Sunday, Dec. 14. 11am– 3pm at Lumpy’s Diner at 5891 Lone Tree Way in Antioch.

Your $25 donation or unwrapped gift for a child gets you a delicious barbecue lunch by Kinder’s BBQ and entrance to the So-Low Riderz Car Show.

If you’re unable to make it, we also accept Venmo donations @NewberrysBlock we’re a 501c3 organization 100% of your donations go toward underprivileged children. Thank you.

Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K. is a non-profit organization providing underprivileged children the opportunity to participate in sports by sponsoring scholarships and equipment to youth programs Benefiting Leagues Offering Children Kindness.

For more information call (925) 783-6050, email newberrysblock@yahoo.com or visit www.facebook.com/NewberrysBlock.