Toy giveaway brings smiles to kids' faces

PLANADA -- The spirit of giving filled the air at Planada Elementary School on Sunday, as officers from the California Highway Patrol were on hand to provide Christmas gifts to more than 200 needy families.

Shane Ferriera, CHP spokesman, estimated that more than 450 toys were given out this year at the program, called "Christmas Memories for Kids." The event is an effort between the CHP, St. Vincent de Paul and a variety of community organizations.

"A lot of the officers know people in this community, and it feels good to give back and help out those in need," Ferriera said.

Olivia Gomez, a co-organizer of the event, grew up in migrant camps in Planada. Gomez, 30, said similar gift give-aways brightened her spirits as a youth during Christmas. "There are lot a families that don't have enough to give to their kids during Christmas," Gomez said. "For me, growing up and having received (gifts), now that I've grown up and have a job, it's important to give back."

Young people from Le Grand High and Cesar Chavez Middle School helped with the program this year, Gomez said.

-- Victor A. Patton