SALINAS — Coastal Kids Home Care marked a significant milestone on Aug. 25, celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Touch-A-Truck event.
Over the past decade, this event has become a cornerstone of community engagement, bringing together families, local businesses and volunteers to support health and mental health care services for local children.
This year’s event was a tremendous success, with 1,434 ticketed guests exploring 42 working trucks, including fire engines, construction vehicles and emergency response units, at the Salinas Rodeo Grounds. The presence of a CALSTAR helicopter added a thrilling aerial element, captivating children and adults alike.
The event was made possible by the dedication of 100 volunteers, along with the generosity of 19 sponsors and 12 in-kind donors. In addition, 10 community partners and nine entertainment groups contributed to the lively atmosphere, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. Families also indulged in delicious offerings from seven food vendors on site.
In total, the event raised an impressive $54,904, all of which will go toward providing essential health and mental health care services for the community’s children. Over the past 10 years, Touch-A-Truck has not only raised critical funds, but also increased awareness about the importance of supporting the health and well-being of the region’s youngest residents.
What began as a small grassroots fundraiser, inspired by then Board President Lewis Cantor’s experience at a Touch-A-Truck on the East Coast, has grown into a beloved and highly anticipated community event in Salinas. Since 2014, this gathering has brought more than 15,000 people together and raised over $350,000 in support of Coastal Kids Home Care’s mission to meet the unique needs of medically fragile children at home.
Margy Mayfield, executive director at Coastal Kids Home Care, reflected on the event’s impact over the years.
“It’s hard to believe that we’re standing here today, celebrating the 10th anniversary of Touch-A-Truck,” Mayfield said. “What started as a small community event has grown into something so much bigger, something that touches the lives of so many families in our community. For us at Coastal Kids Home Care, Touch-A-Truck is more than just a day of fun — it’s a day that represents hope, love, and the strength of our community.”
The team at Coastal Kids Home Care expressed their deep gratitude for the dedicated group of board and committee volunteers who have made this incredible event possible. They also gave thanks to the generous businesses and community partners who donate their vehicles and time year after year, and a special shout-out was given to the volunteers who’ve worked tirelessly to make the event possible.
“Over the past 10 years, we’ve seen firsthand the impact that this event has on the children and families we serve,” said Kelli Mullen Brown, development director at Coastal Kids Home Care. “Touch-A-Truck brings joy to children who face unimaginable challenges, and it reminds their families that they are not alone. It’s a day when the community comes together to support one another, to celebrate life, and to make a difference. We are so grateful to each and every one of you for being here today, for your support, and for helping us continue to provide care to those who need it most.”
Mayfield concluded, “As we look back on these 10 years, we are filled with gratitude — gratitude for the community leaders who have supported us, for the businesses that have sponsored us, and for all of you who come out year after year. Together, we’ve made a real difference in the lives of countless families, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for many years to come.”
The success of the 10th anniversary event highlights the enduring appeal and impact of Touch-A-Truck. As Coastal Kids looks ahead to the next decade, the organization remains committed to its mission of providing vital home health care services to children in the community.
