LONG BEACH, Calif. - Hundreds of kids in Long Beach received toys Saturday morning, despite a real-life Grinch’s best effort to ruin the annual event.
"It’s amazing because we were heartbroken Sunday morning hearing all those toys were gone," said Tito Rodriguez, also known as "Hood Santa." "We didn’t know what we were going to do."
Last week, Rodriguez and the Local Hearts Foundation held concert fundraising events with SOS Music. For the concerts, the ticket price included toy donations.
Following the concert fundraiser, thieves broke in and stole roughly half the donated toys from a trailer last Sunday morning.
"Shame on you bro," said Rodriguez. "You’re stealing from kids. That’s horrible."
Rodriguez posted about what happened on social media, and the community responded and helped in a big way. In the days leading up to Saturday’s toy giveaway, the community rallied and raised more toys than the thieves stole.
"People drove from Glendale to donate toys," said HJ Chong, from the Local Hearts Foundation. "World Tech Toys donated six pallets. So many people from all over the country saw what was happening and said, ‘We’re going to help you out.’"
"The love came in from all over the country," said Rodriguez. "The love came in from everywhere. It’s good to know people care."
Kids and their families lined up hours ahead of the toy giveaway Saturday morning. Much needed assistance this time of year when bills can pile up.
"It’s like a shopping spree," said one child.
"It’s a big help for all the people," said a parent named Brian. "Kids don’t realize how expensive things are."
"I’m focusing on my bills and stuff, so I’m able to come here and get them gifts [I wouldn’t be able to give them]," said another parent. "It’s really helpful."
Authorities are still looking for the thieves that stole toys from the trailer. However, despite the burglars’ best efforts, they couldn’t take all the toys or joy away from underserved kids.
"The [community] saved Christmas in the hood," said Rodriguez. "That’s why we do this."
"Thank you for all the toys and everything," said one child.
Anyone with information about the toy burglary is urged to contact law enforcement.