Local kids get an early Christmas

LITTLE HAVANA, Fla. (WSVN) -- Dozens of underprivileged South Florida children got a real-life toy story when they got to spend the day with Saint Nick.

With the sleigh and reindeer in the shop, Santa hopped a ride on a fire truck to greet smiling faces in Miami's Little Havana!

Eighteen hundred kids from foster homes and less fortunate families showed up for the big toy giveaway.

The kids were all smiles as Santa gave them something special. "I traded my gift for my brother so I got a shuffle board," said Jailyn Palma.

For parents, the event gave them the chance to make Christmas special for their little ones. "The economy is really bad right now," said Diana Aguilera, "and the fact that we have this is a great opportunity. It's great."

The Kawanis Club hopes to give out gifts to more than 8,000 kids this holiday season. Giving back is something they work hard to do every year. "We spend countless hours every year doing this with all the funds that we raise to bring this happiness." said President of Kiwanis Club of Little Havana, Henry Gimenez. "This is one of four best events."

The effort runs from Saturday through Jan. 7.

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