20,000 Toys To Be Given To OC Families In Need

ORANGE COUNTY, CA — One of the biggest toy drives of the year is underway in Orange County, as nonprofit community health center Families Together of Orange County continues its tradition of giving away 20,000 toys to underprivileged children.

The 18th Annual Christmas Together event takes place Sunday, Dec. 18, and over 30,000 registered residents will be a part of the joy-giving experience at the Anaheim Convention Center.

"Last year, the event saw tremendous growth, going from giving away 6,000 toys in 2020 to giving away 20,000 toys in 2021," a Families Together of OC news release said.

This year, the organization is preparing to give away another 20,000 toys, as well as Christmas hams and Christmas dinners to attendees.

Christmas Together is an all-day event that features activities for all ages to enjoy, including games, entertainment, food and a visit from Santa Claus, free of charge.

The event will also feature appearances from special guests, including elected officials Congressman Lou Correa and council members from the City of Anaheim.

Registration for the event reached capacity on Nov. 18.

“Last year, our Christmas Together event saw exponential growth, and we are honored to be able to give back to the community on such a large scale again. Our dedication to the community is what drives us to keep improving, and we are making sure that this year’s Christmas Together event is the best one yet," Families Together CEO Alecandre Rossel said in a statement. "We’re especially thankful to our partners including Costco, Northgate Gonzalez Market and the Anaheim Convention Center for granting us the space that we need to really make a difference this holiday season.”

Christmas Together registration was open to the community and registration has reached capacity for the event.

Only registered attendees will be allowed into the venue to partake in the event and receive toys.