On December 12, residents from San Pedro and Long Beach formed a line at the YWCA of Harbor Area and South Bay for their annual “Breakfast with Santa.”
The YWCA has hosted the event for 31 years.
Typically, in years past, 300-400 residents gathered to get presents and sit on Santa’s lap.
This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the YWCA only invited 150-200 residents. Each family was spaced 10 minutes apart, and everyone had to take pictures with Santa while social distancing, six feet away from St. Nick.
Sonia Bailey, the executive director said, “The joy on the families’ faces this year is much bigger than previous years. They are all so grateful that we did not cancel Christmas.”
“This has been a holiday tradition for 31 years. Presents are donated by San Pedro Rotary, Supervisor Hans, and private individuals,” said Julia Huerta, the Board President of the YWCA.
Both Julia Huerta and “Santa” work for the Long Beach Port.
Dalaya Lane just moved to San Pedro. She was excited to find out about this event.
“My son is three, this is the first Christmas he understands the meaning of Christmas. So, I brought him here because he wanted presents,” said Lane.
The event had over a dozen volunteers. Most were passing out breakfast from Maya Restaurant made by Bolero. In each box was pancakes, eggs and sausage.
The kids received a large 13-gallon black trash bag full of toys, and each family took professional and personal photos with Santa.
The event ended at noon. Every family left with giant smiles across their faces. “The gratitude is incredible,” said Huerta.
“This is my first Christmas working with the YWCA. This has been so exciting, and the Christmas decorations are amazing. Many of these people come on Fridays for our free food giveaway,” said Sean Baker.
Next Christmas, The YWCA hopes that COVID-19 regulations are lifted so they can resume servicing the community for all those in need.