Christmas Comes Early For Some South Florida Kids
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – A group of children who went to sing to store employees at a Florida City Walmart got a surprise of their own on Wednesday.
Fifty Florida City Elementary students went on a field trip to a nearby Walmart Supercenter where they were going to sing Christmas carols to spread some holiday cheer.
What they didn't know was that the staff and customers they were singing to had a treat for them as well.
Each child received an early Christmas present!
"I didn't know that we were going to get presents and I was really excited," said third grader Rita Desir.
"I felt so excited because I never picked out a toy," said fourth grader Samantha Cruz.
All this just in time to tuck it under the Christmas tree for next week.
Not far away at Harris Field in Homestead, the Hispanic Police Officers Association held its annual toy distribution.
More than 1,500 children lined up and anxiously waited to go inside a Miami-Dade Police command post bus filled with toys for them to pick out the one they wanted.
"This is Christmas for them and for us it is a great feeling for us to come out here and pass out all the toys, candy and music for the children," said Sgt. Robert Fortich.
Hispanic officers from many departments participate every year and they get help from the Edge organization.
"We are a non-profit organization that helps out children that are victimized in the community," said Mercy Hernandez who is with Edge.
For many of these kids, even one toy is a big deal.
"I got a shark toy!" little Ralphie told CBS4's Hank Tester.
Ralphie not only enjoyed his new toy, but also the TV limelight.
"Am I on TV? I'm on TV!" he joyfully exclaimed.
It was a night Ralphie will never forget. The same for all the other children thanks to a bunch of caring cops and community activists.
The Hispanic Police Officers Association says it's held the event since 1979 and they plan to continue to host the event for years to come.
