BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Families gathered at the Hispanic Center in Bethlehem today for a holiday toy drive, aimed at helping children who might otherwise go without gifts.
The toy drive gave 150 local children the chance to receive presents from Santa this holiday season.
Lizzette Melendez, Operations Manager of the Hispanic Center LV says, “We try to do this during, you know, Christmas time. Try to give back some toys and just some cheer, fun for family and children of the south side of Bethlehem.”
This year, organizers say they had to make some tough decisions.
“Usually we open it for the community, but unfortunately due to lack of donations and sponsorships, as we had hoped we would get, we decided to limit it to the families of the food pantry,” Melendez says.
Organizers say the need is far greater than the resources available.
Melendez says, “We try to actually circulate the ones that we did for the last two years so everybody has a chance to at least enjoy the festivities and get a gift for their children.”
And for parents that support comes at a critical time.
“Times are hard even for hardworking parents after their normal monthly household living expenses are paid right now. It’s hard to take out. If you have two or three children, toys are not $5 or $10 anymore,” Melendez added.
Inside, children were met with smiles, characters and a festive atmosphere.
Families say the center is more than just a place for events.
Ramonita Garcia, a Bethlehem resident and member of the Hispanic Center says, “We have this place of entertainment. We, with them, we educate each other. With this place, we can be nothing.”
For many families this event provided a much needed way to celebrate the season.
“They are very happy because they have a lot of presents,” Garcia explains.
Organizers say donations are always welcome to help the pantry and center run year-round.