The holiday season can be a time of joy and connection, but it can also bring added stress, loneliness, or challenges related to food access, housing stability, or emotional well-being. To support our students and families, the California Department of Education has shared a collection of no-cost resources available statewide and nationally.
Brea Olinda Unified School District also partners with local resources to support families with food, mental health and other needs.
If you or someone you know could use support this season, we encourage you to explore the resources below.
Immediate Support & Emotional Well-Being
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Free, confidential emotional support available 24/7 for individuals experiencing emotional distress or crisis.
📞 Call or text 988 | 🌐 988lifeline.org
Hazel Health (All BOUSD Students)
Brea Olinda USD partners directly with Hazel Health to provide students with high-quality telehealth care at no cost to families.
🌐getstarted.hazel.co/district/bousd
Soluna (Ages 13–25)
A no-cost app offering virtual emotional support, coaching, crisis resources, and connections to local services.
🌐 solunaapp.com
BrightLife Kids (Ages 0–12 & Families)
Free virtual coaching, parent support, and behavioral health resources for young children and caregivers.
🌐 hellobrightline.com/brightlifekids
Mental Health America
Articles, coping tools, and guidance to manage stress and emotions during the holiday season.
Hope for the holidays | Mental Health America
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) Holiday Emotional Health Resources
Tools and resources addressing holiday stress, emotional health, and substance use concerns.
Food, Housing & Community Support
211 California
A free, confidential service connecting individuals to food assistance, housing support, utility help, and more.
📞 Call 211 | 🌐 211ca.org
FindHelp.org
Search by ZIP code for food, housing, healthcare, transportation, financial support, and other services.
🌐 findhelp.org
Feeding America
Find local food banks and distribution sites.
🌐 feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank
California Association of Food Banks
Locate food banks and programs serving communities statewide.
🌐 cafoodbanks.org/our-members
Additional Community Food Resources
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FoodFinder: foodfinder.us
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Fridge Finder (Community Fridges): fridgefinder.app
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Little Free Pantry Map: mini pantry movement
Alliance for a Healthier Generation – Food Access Resources
Tools and guidance to support food access in schools and communities.
Covenant House California
Shelters and services for youth experiencing homelessness.
🌐 covenanthousecalifornia.org
Tips for Emotional Well-Being During the Holidays
Pay attention to your feelings.
Remember that it is okay to feel unhappy during the holidays. Recognizing your feelings is the first step to addressing and nurturing them.
Develop a plan for when you may be feeling stressed, sad, or lonely.
This plan may include calling a friend or family member, going for a walk, engaging in a joyous activity, or watching a favorite movie.
Be intentional in caring for your mind and body.
Schedule time for yourself to recharge your mind and body. This may include reading a book, working out, time in nature, and practicing stress management skills, such as deep breathing or mindfulness. Remember to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of sleep, and find time for exercise.
Connect with community.
If you can’t be near loved ones, finding a supportive community can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Consider scheduling a regular phone call with family and friends as well.
Support others during this time of year, as grief and loss can be amplified.
Check in on loved ones who may be alone or struggling. Helping a friend or neighbor not only brings joy to others but can also improve your happiness and well-being.
Our schools and community partners care deeply about the well-being of our students and families. If you or someone you know needs support this holiday season, please know help is available and you are not alone.