FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Santa and smiles filled Christmas morning in Fort Lauderdale as children received new gadgets, bikes and scooters during a holiday toy giveaway aimed at helping families in need.
Volunteers gathered early at Smitty’s on Sistrunk Boulevard for the 13th annual All-Star Toy Giveaway, where about 400 toys were distributed to 50 families.
“What we’re doing here this morning, we’re just giving back to the community,” said Kerrick Wiggins Jr., a volunteer. “We have 400 toys, 50 families.”
The event brought together volunteers dressed as elves and a Santa who bore a striking resemblance to former Sen. Chris Smith.
The giveaway was organized in partnership with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter of Jack and Jill of America.
“We’re going to put toys in hand, watch them open the gifts and just have a great time,” Smith said.
In addition to collecting, wrapping and hand-delivering toys on Christmas morning, volunteers also distributed donated funds this year to help families with rent and bills.
“It’s very heartwarming,” Wiggins said. “It’s very, very heartwarming seeing the families enjoying Christmas how I feel everybody should enjoy. It’s just very beautiful to see.”
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