SCRANTON, Pa. — "We allow parents to come in and shop and pick out the individual gifts that they want for each child, so it's there is that dignity component making sure that they pick out something that their child will really love on Christmas morning," said Megan Loftus, President & CEO Friends of the Poor.
The Byron Recreation Complex at the University of Scranton is completely filled with something for every child in need this Christmas season as part of the Gifts for Kids event by Friends of the Poor, Catholic Social Services, and the Catherine McAuley Center.
Parents could shop around like they would a store and pick out brand-new gifts, everything from beauty supplies, plushies, skateboards, sports gear, winter clothes, and brand-new bicycles.
"And we are aiming to do what we did last year and give out five thou- gifts for 5,000 children," said Loftus.
Organizers say this would not have been possible without the help of the community and the volunteers who dedicated their time to make this event possible.
Because of volunteers who come every year, like Bikers for Justice, every child in the county will have a gift to open on Christmas Day.
"Oh, that just tickles your heart. I mean, there might be another word for it, but when you look at the smiles on these kids' faces, you know you've done great," said James Fink, Bikers for Justice.
"That's the best part of this whole thing: seeing how happy the kids are and knowing that there are people out there that reach out to them," said Dennis Cooper, Bikers for Justice.
Some volunteers say it's important to give back and serve the community they love, especially during the holiday season.
"But also, it's just really fun. It's joyous, part of that season, so I get a lot of joy from it as well," said Amy Paciej-Woodruff.
The second and last Gifts for Kids distribution day event will be on Monday, December 16, at the Byron Recreation Complex.