The Gemological Institute of America’s annual holiday gift drive, organized by Institute staff and students, collected more than $7,826 this year in cash, toys, and food. As a result, 360 gifts and 72 dinners will be given to families in the San Diego, Calif., area who in need during the holidays.

The staff and students presented the funds and gifts to two north San Diego County nonprofit organizations, Hospice of the North Coast and The Elizabeth Hospice, on Dec. 13. Both hospice organizations provide physical, emotional, spiritual, and bereavement support for terminally ill patients, their families, and the community.

The Institute’s fund-raising efforts consisted of a combined gift, food, and cash drive held during November and December at its world headquarters and Robert Mouawad Campus in Carlsbad.

GIA has organized a charitable drive to aid local families in need over the holidays every year since 1996. Since then, GIA has donated approximately $54,826 in gifts, food, and cash to a variety of community recipients and organizations.

JCK