PATERSON, New Jersey (WABC) — Officials in Paterson, New Jersey spread some holiday cheer to kids and their families ahead of Christmas Day.
The New Jersey Community Development Corporation (NJCDC) hosted its 32nd annual holiday party in the morning on Christmas Eve.
During the party, organizers provided gifts and held a party for more than 700 families. Each child who attended got to take home a box with three toys.
Organizer Gabrielle Foushee says the event has a positive impact on families in need.
“It’s very important because families are in desperate need of love, support and even finances. So, everything that is here is donated,” Foushee said.
Kids who attended the event enjoyed holiday festivities, including a visit from Santa, fun games and crafts.
Tabitha Louis was one of the parents who attended the event with her children.
“There’s a lot of enjoyment, happiness here. I feel the spirit and God is good,” Louis said.
Some people were even remarking that Santa looked a lot like Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh. The mayor says he was attending to other businesses at the time of the event inside City Hall.
The event is NJCDC’s longest-running tradition, starting in 1994, when the organization was founded.
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