Kids from inner-city neighborhoods, many experiencing snow for the first time, enjoyed an unforgettable Christmas treat with bobsledding and snow play at Algin Sutton Park, right in the heart of Los Angeles.


Jingle bells were ringing, jingle bells were swinging in the not so frosty Los Angeles air! Amidst the Festivities over 650 families were able to enjoy a day filled with a real Santa slay, face painting, joyful holiday music, a special appearance by Santa Claus, presents for all families in attendance, and an appearance by a not so pleasant Grinch. 

In the spirit of Christmas and the magical feeling of the holiday season, the Los Angeles community came together to spread a bit of joy and participate in the season of giving. Thanks to the tireless work of:

  • The Banks Family
  • Detours Mentoring Group

    A.P.U.U. (Advocates for Peace Urban Unity)
  • It’s Bigger Than Us (IBTU)
  • LA Rec & Parks
  • California Community Foundation
  • MHCD8 (Marqueece Harris-Dawson)
  • Strong Shoulder
  • W.O.M.E.N. (Women of Morals Empowering the Neighborhood)
  • Esteem Corps
  • U.C.A.N. (Urban Community Action Network)
  • WLCAC
  • CSPB (Community Safety Partnership Bureau, Los Angeles Police Department)
  • Exquisite Sis 2 Gether 

The event was bigger, better and more amazing than even the event coordinators could have ever hoped for. As the event organizers gathered toys for the kids, put together the festivities and created this magical experience, they anticipated having 500 kids and their families in attendance. Fortunately, they were prepared to welcome many more families to this holiday celebration. All together, they handed out over 650 toys to the children and their families. Preparing for more participants than last year, the organizers had the foresight to gather a little extra Christmas cheer for Santa to pull out of his bag. Welcoming and being prepared to welcome over 650 kids and their families was a giant leap for the event in its fifth year. 

“Year after year this event has grown exponentially. Last year, we were able to hand out 500 toys to the kids and their families. This year, with the help of our ever growing team of organizations, city officials and law enforcement, we were overjoyed to spread Christmas cheer and hand out toys to 650 plus kids and their families. Next year, we are going to aim even higher!” -Banks Family representative, James Banks said

“We absolutely loved it! The kids really enjoyed themselves, and everything was so well organized. I’ve attended quite a few charity toy events, but this one stood out. The snow was such a special touch—I’ve never been able to take my kids to see snow before, so this was their very first experience with it. Honestly, they enjoyed the event even more than the toys!” – Brenda Rodriguez 

To get involved for the planning of The Banks Family next event follow:

Instagram: @banksthebrokerca