In December, the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading hosted its final Pop-Up Neighbor Through Laundry event of 2025 in DeSoto County—closing the year with generosity, connection, and a bit of holiday magic.
Eighty-four families were served during the event, and a remarkable 1,073 loads of laundry were completed, easing financial pressure and offering practical support during a busy time of year. Families were also welcomed by All Faiths Food Bank, which distributed fresh produce and delighted participants with an unexpected gift: beautiful fresh-cut flower arrangements that brought color and joy to the laundromat.
Adding to the festive spirit were two very special celebrity readers—Santa Claus and his elf, Tonya—who created memorable moments for children and caregivers alike through stories, laughter, and warm holiday cheer.
The event was made possible through the dedication of volunteers and community partners working side by side. Representing The Patterson Foundation were Carolina Franco, Melissa Hirstein, Chelsea Palmer, Cinthia Pena, and Elias Verzini, who joined volunteers from DeSoto High School and retired Superintendent of Schools, Adrian Cline, in supporting families throughout the day.
In 2025, the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading hosted 17 Pop-Up Neighbor Through Laundry events across the region, serving 1,147 families and completing 13,731 loads of laundry. Each event reinforced a simple idea: meeting families where they are, offering dignity, relief, and connection through shared community care.
As the year came to a close, Pop-Up Neighbor Through Laundry stood as a testament to what is possible when partners, volunteers, and neighbors come together with a shared commitment to supporting families and strengthening community well-being.
