Seasonal & Holidays

Giving Tuesday 2023: 5 Ways To Give Back In Watsonville

This holiday season, consider donating and volunteering locally to make a positive impact in our community.

This Giving Tuesday, consider donating to local organizations that give back right at home.
This Giving Tuesday, consider donating to local organizations that give back right at home. (Shutterstock)

Giving Tuesday is a global initiative that brings people together to harness the potential of collective generosity. Fortunately for folks in the Watsonville area, there’s no shortage of organizations nearby that could greatly benefit from your support.

Here are five outstanding organizations in the Watsonville area. Please consider volunteering or donating to them for Giving Tuesday and beyond.


  1. Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County — Second Harvest Food Bank works to end hunger in Santa Cruz County, including Watsonville, by mobilizing resources, providing nutritious food and advocating for food security. They distribute millions of pounds of food annually through a network of partner agencies and programs. Learn more at thefoodbank.org.
  2. Pajaro Valley Shelter Services — Pajaro Valley Shelter Services is dedicated to helping individuals and families in crisis find stable housing. They provide shelter, support services and resources to those experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Learn more at pvshelter.org.
  3. Watsonville Wetlands Watch — Watsonville Wetlands Watch is a community-based organization focused on conserving, restoring and providing education about the wetlands in the Pajaro Valley. They engage volunteers and the community in habitat restoration and environmental education efforts. Learn more at watsonvillewetlandswatch.org.
  4. Pajaro Valley Arts — Pajaro Valley Arts supports and promotes the arts in the Pajaro Valley region. They offer exhibitions, educational programs and community events to enhance the cultural vibrancy of the area. Learn more at pvarts.org.
  5. Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter — The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter provides shelter and care for animals in need and has a location in Watsonville. They work to find loving homes for pets, promote responsible pet ownership and offer spaying/neutering services. Learn more at scanimalshelter.org.

Do you know of another volunteer organization in Watsonville that should be recognized? Let us know about it in the comments!

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