On a cool December morning in South Los Angeles, families lined Harvard Boulevard as holiday music played, volunteers bustled about and Santa and Mrs. Claus rode in a Los Angeles Fire Department fire truck. For thousands of local residents, it marked a moment of joy and relief at First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) Church of Los Angeles’ annual Christmas giveaway.

Now in its 13th year, the event served more than 5,000 Angelenos, offering free toys, coats, clothing, shoes, socks and bags of fresh groceries, along with something less tangible but just as meaningful: a sense of connection and care during a challenging year for many families.

Community leaders including Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, First Lady Dr. Dwinita Tyler and FAME Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Timothy Tyler opened the morning with remarks centered on unity and service.

“This season reminds us that God’s love shows up through people,” Tyler said. “Every coat, every toy, every bag of groceries represents dignity, compassion and the promise that no one in our community walks alone.”

Harris-Dawson thanked the church for its long-standing commitment to South Los Angeles families, noting the impact of meeting real, everyday needs. “The food and toys are everything that the community needs,” he said.

As children posed for photos with Santa and volunteers handed out gifts, a DJ kept spirits high with festive music. For parents and caregivers, the event offered both practical support and a reminder that help is available close to home.

“Times are tough,” said Jason Lee, a longtime Los Angeles resident. “As a community, we’re grateful to have a church that shows up and gives from the heart. [They] don’t turn anybody away.”

The giveaway was led by FAME’s Commission on Missions and Welfare and the Sarah Allen Women’s Missionary Society, part of the church’s broader effort to address food insecurity and support vulnerable families year-round. In addition to its holiday outreach, FAME hosts a monthly food giveaway on the fourth Saturday of every month.