Los Angeles’ Koreatown was filled with warmth and joy as the community came together for a heartwarming holiday event. On the morning of December 7, the annual “Holiday Winter Festival” took place in the parking lot of the Kheir Clinic, spreading holiday cheer to children and families.
The festival, which included the traditional toy giveaway, featured a range of engaging activities such as art and essay contests, and raffle prizes. This year’s event was supported by Heads Up Youth Foundation, founded by ABC Sports Anchor Rob Fukuzaki, and SoCalGas, both serving as title sponsors. Additionally, the event was backed by City Councilmember Heather Hutt of District 10.
A number of organizations, including Heads Up Youth Foundation, APA Toy Drive, and Baby2Baby, donated toys to the cause, resulting in over 700 toys being distributed for free to children. SoCalGas Supervisor Sommer White explained, “This event is to share our gratitude with the families in our service areas. Supporting the community is always our top priority.”
Rob Fukuzaki added, “We’ve prepared a variety of gifts and activities for the kids. I hope they have a wonderful time, and that all families enjoy a warm and happy holiday season.”
Attendance at the festival was open to pre-registered families, with over 600 children signing up and more than 1,000 attendees visiting throughout the day. Guests were admitted in four time slots, and children could choose from a selection of age-appropriate toys, including dolls, art supplies, board games, basketballs, and LEGO sets.
Grace Cho, who attended with her two children, expressed her delight, saying, “We learned about this event through the clinic. Seeing my kids so happy made me feel grateful.”
The event also featured various free activities, such as photos with Santa, a pie walk, balloon art, a photo booth, and refreshments like hot dogs and popcorn. Eunice Kim, who joined with her child, commented, “It’s not just the toys; the different programs make it so enjoyable. The theme of holiday sharing makes it even more meaningful.”
Community partners, including the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services, the American Heart Association, the Karsh Center, Pathways LA, the WIC Program, and LA Care, hosted booths to provide participants with useful information and giveaway items.
Among the highlights of the day were the bumper cars and the giant polar bear slide, supported by Councilmember Hutt’s office, which were particularly popular with children. Parents and guardians also enjoyed the event, participating in hourly raffles for household goods.
Councilmember Hutt remarked, “As the Kheir Clinic’s name suggests, our job is to care for and protect our youth and children. We hope this event brings an abundance of joy and warmth to everyone this holiday season.”
Hutt also announced the winners of the art and essay contests. Students from elementary, middle, and high schools competed for prizes, with winners receiving up to $500 awards and certificates.
BY HOONSIK WOO [woo.hoonsik@koreadaily.com]
