Hidalgo Society’s Annual Christmas toy drive
BRAWLEY, Calif. (KYMA, KSWT, T3)
Hidalgo Society held its annual Christmas drive and bike raffle today.
With donations from local businesses and community members, the non-profit was able to bring holiday cheer to the Brawley community.
“I’m excited, I plan to ride my bike everywhere," said Jesus Granadino, bike winner.
He is one of the 100 lucky kids that got to go home with a brand new bike
“I can remember back as a child, on Christmas day, a bike was always a gift that we would receive and be so excited about," said Esther Sanchez-Banda, Hidalgo Society president.
Hidalgo Society says almost 300 children attend the event every year.
“It’s exciting to see these children that don’t get this opportunity especially on Christmas day for us to provide them with at least a toy or an opportunity to win a bike. To see a smile on their face just brings so much joy to us," said Banda.
Not every child gets to go home with a bike, but they all leave with a full belly and a toy from Santa himself.
“Yea we come every year, but this year I only brought one of my grandkids. It’s special for me because I love to see the kids and I love to see all the kids smiling and getting their gifts. To me the kids are what’s important today," said Veronica Ruiz, Westmorland resident.