LEND A HAND FOUNDATION INC OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

A Legacy of Service and Impact:
Now celebrating 28 years of giving, the Lend A Hand Foundation continues its signature Annual Back to School Giveaway, which provides educational supply kits to thousands of underserved students each year.
• In August 2024, LAHF distributed 12,000 educational supply kits to Oakland and Alameda County students.
• In 2022, the organization reached a record milestone by providing 25,000 supply kits with the help of generous sponsors and volunteers.
• To date, LAHF has distributed over 173,000 educational supply kits—ensuring students have the tools they need to learn, succeed, and remain in school.
On May 9, 2022, the Foundation celebrated its 25th Anniversary of Service, recognizing achievements such as the Stay In School Program, scholarship awards, and the creation of Community Closets at local schools that provide clothing, hygiene items, and basic needs to students throughout the year. These efforts have helped reduce absenteeism and promote academic engagement.
LAHF’s year-round services also include food and clothing assistance, basic needs support, and emergency relief during inclement weather, extending compassion to families at their greatest point of need.
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The Joy of Giving
Another cornerstone of the organization’s work is the Annual “Joy of Giving” Holiday Celebration, held from November through December. This cherished program supports families living in transitional or unstable housing by providing gifts, meals, and essential items for children, teens, parents, and seniors.
In celebration of the 25th Joy of Giving, LAHF extended its giving to 25 days, beginning with the distribution of over 300 turkeys and continuing through December. That season, 682 individuals were served—
• 400 children received coats, shoes, socks, toys, and school supplies.
• 55 teens received gift cards, warm clothing, and school items.
• 110 parents received household essentials and comfort items.
• Over 300 individuals shared a warm holiday meal and took food home for their families.
This program embodies LAHF’s mission to spread joy, restore dignity, and strengthen community through compassion in action.
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About the Founder – Dee Johnson

Dee Johnson, Founder and Executive Director of the Lend A Hand Foundation (LAHF), established the organization in 1997 with little more than determination, faith, and compassion. A former foster parent and lung cancer survivor, Dee turned her personal challenges into a lifelong mission to uplift underserved children and families throughout Oakland and Alameda County. What began with small fundraisers and helping families at the Henry Robinson Multi-Service Center has grown into a powerful nonprofit with a Board of Directors, Advisory Board, and dedicated volunteers serving thousands every year.

Now celebrating 28 years of service, LAHF has distributed over 173,000 educational supply kits through its Stay In School Program, established community closets in schools, and provides year-round support with food, clothing, and basic needs. Its beloved “Joy of Giving” Holiday Celebration brings warmth and hope to hundreds of families each winter with coats, toys, meals, and essentials for children, teens, parents, and seniors.

Dee holds a BS in Business Management from the University of Phoenix, is a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, and a 2024 Alameda County Women’s Hall of Fame inductee. A published author of “Facing the Nonprofit Blues: Turning Life’s Challenges Into Life’s Joys,” she continues to inspire others through her leadership and vision to help families not only survive, but thrive.