Ideally, the holiday season is one of the most joyful times of the year. But for too many parents, the season merely reinforces financial hardships at a time when they wish to do even more for their children than a stretched budget allows.

Chicanos Por La Causa's Angeles del Barrio Children's Christmas Celebration is a community event offering gifts for families who otherwise might have to go without. Across the state, more than 16,000 toys are given to needy children. But there is fun behind the scenes, as well, at the wrapping parties, where up to 300 "elves," including SRP volunteers, wrap and decorate gifts for a lot of excited boys and girls.

The true gift, however, is to the parents who see the joy in a child’s face and take comfort in the knowledge that while toys are soon outgrown, happy memories last a lifetime.

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

If your organization needs support, contact SRP Community Outreach at (602) 236-2484.