December 17 2025 8:58 AM ​​

​

Wilmington, we’ve been called to action again can you help?

Last year, thanks to this amazing community, we were able to support many families in need. This year, that number is expected to double and it's still growing.

 

​While our initial estimate was closer to 45 students, recent immigration-related challenges and circumstances beyond families’ control have caused some to step back or remain unseen during this time. We respect those decisions and will continue outreach where possible. As of now, these are the confirmed students and families we are serving.

​​

The updated current student number in need 28 and 132 family members 

So far captain adopted 24 students 116 of their family members.  

​

4 students and 20 families are remaining

​Family U (5), Family V (5), Family Z (6) and Family AA (4)

​​

There are students at Phineas Banning High School with families who are doing their best to stay afloat. Some are living in cars, some in motels, and others are packed into small spaces with multiple families under one roof. The challenges are real, and the need is growing as we head into the colder months.

​

We’re looking for Pilot Captains people willing to take the wheel and make a difference in someone’s life.

​

Here’s how it works:

​

Before choosing a family, please read carefully:

Adopting a Pilot is a true commitment, and families are counting on each pledge being completed.
Please be sure you’re able to follow through before selecting a family.

If doing it alone feels overwhelming, consider teaming up with someone a friend, coworker, or another caring neighbor so you can complete the commitment together.

And if adopting isn’t possible this year, a small monetary donation is equally appreciated and helps support families who are not chosen or whose needs exceed their list.

​

• Adopt a Pilot (then email me your choice to be confirmed below) 

• Make their holiday wishes come true from a provided list

• If you can, add anything extra gift cards, food, (microwave hotplate list) (stove oven list)   donations, warm clothing it all helps more than you know. ​

​

Follow your heart. That’s really what this is about.

Everything you give big or small can bring hope and joy to a family that truly needs it this season.

When you reach out, please mention Operation Pilot Wheel or Adopt a Pilot so we know how you'd like to help.

​

And don’t forget share this, invite friends, spread the word, and any monetary donation is welcomed if you can.

​

Yes you can be anonymous !

Because when a community comes together, amazing things happen. 

​

Deadline Thursday December 18 2025 12 pm  Drop off will be at:

 

Mindful Gainz 128 E Anaheim St Wilmington , CA. 90744 

Erik Esquivel Banning High School Alumni C/O 2005

Monday through Thursday 6 am - 12 pm 

​

If there is a " letter " next to the word " Family " button they are available to be adopted. 

Number (   ) in parentheses are the number of family members in the household.

​

Click on the" SAMPLE " button to see what the form will look like.   

​

Needy Wilmington Corp. (NWC) A Needy Wilmington (ANW) SOS CCN 3957955 is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law. Our federal tax identification number (EIN) is 82-3551385. Labor donated. Programs, events, or activities is not presented, endorsed, recommended, supervised, approved, or sponsored by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). The district assumes no liability or responsibility for any loss or injury that may occur. LAUSD is only permitting material(s) of programs, events, or activities to be distributed due to possible interest among students and/or staff.