Bethel Island, CA nonprofit supporting local children and families
Community programs are open to Bethel Island children and families.
Programs for children and families across Bethel Island.
Explore BICS programs that support learning, safety, celebration, and community connection for Bethel Island children and families.
Backpacks & school supplies
Join our annual Back-to-School Supplies Distribution! Local students receive backpacks filled with school supplies, helping them start the year prepared and confident.
Christmas Party
A joyful celebration where children can enjoy festive activities, receive gifts, meet Santa, and make special holiday memories.
Water safety & life jackets
Funded by Measure X, Bethel Island's Water Safety Program stocks the local life jacket station and reimburses youth residents for swim lessons or lifeguard training.
Youth recreation programs
Program details and forms for activities that help local children stay active, connected, and included.
Scholarships & Laptop program
Clear eligibility, deadlines, downloadable applications, and program details for local students.
Community partnerships
Local businesses, service groups, and neighbors help BICS programs grow across Bethel Island.
Growing community programs, year after year.
200+
Backpacks and school supply kits distributed annually
250+
Life jackets distributed
30+
Scholarships and laptops awarded to local students
350+
Children welcomed at the Holiday Part
From backpacks and scholarships to water safety and holiday celebrations, BICS continues to create programs that bring children, families, partners, and neighbors together.
Community partners make these programs possible.
BICS supports children from Bethel Island, Dutch Slough, Wells Road, and Sand Mound Road with programs that ease financial strain for underserved families and encourage educational growth. Our ongoing efforts empower children to succeed both in school and life, and access to be involved in community activities. We are connecting the heart of our community. We work closely with the Oakley School district to ensure we reach all children in our district for our programs. We also work closely with the Contra Costa County District 3 Supervisors office regarding Measure X funding and Assembly member Lori Wilsons office.
25+
Community partners
Recognized together on the full Partners page.
Local
Businesses & service groups
Neighbors and organizations helping programs grow.
Year-round
Program support
Partnerships that help BICS serve children across seasons.
Stories from our community.
Watch a short overview of BICS programs and the community spirit behind them.
Latest news.
Read recent awards, event recaps, program updates, sponsor thank-yous, and community milestones.
Community Voices
I continue to be in awe of the amazing members of BICS. Their efforts reach so many of our Summer Lake students who live on Bethel Island. One of their yearly events, that I love to participate in, is the annual backpack giveaway. I see the joy in the children’s faces as they get to pick out their own backpack, stuffed with school supplies. But I also see the relief and gratitude on the faces of weary parents who are so thankful for this gift to their children, and the knowledge that their child will get to start the school year prepared. I remember one middle school girl this year who arrived at the giveaway. She had that “I’m too old for this” look on her face. She was encouraged to select one, and her eyes lit up when she picked out “just right one.” The look on her face immediately changed. Moments like that are the “why” I am thankful I can participate in the BICS events each year.
Laurie Seeno
LMT
Summer Lake Elementary
OUESD
Ever since my child was born, Bethel Island Children’s Support has been a part of our Christmas joy. Every year, he looks forward to attending their party in hopes of seeing santa. Now, as he is a teenager, he is able to enjoy the party in a new way, by helping younger children experience the magic of Christmas. Thank you, Bethel Island Children’s Support. -Audrey
Program support
Events, celebrations, and important dates.
Stay connected with upcoming celebrations, program dates, application deadlines, and community gatherings.
MAR 1
2027
Application dates, requirements, and submission details for local students.
JUN
2027
Supply pickup details, program information, and community announcements.
Give to community programs that children remember.
Your gift helps BICS continue programs for school supplies, scholarships, water safety, holiday celebrations, and more.
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