As the holiday season swings into full gear, the spirit of giving finds a strong pulse in Miami-Dade where CAMACOL, the Latin Chamber of Commerce of the United States, is holding its 40th annual Christmas meal giveaway. This year's event took place at loanDepot Park, where trucks and arms were set to distribute sustenance and hope in equal measure. According to 953WDAE, as early as yesterday morning, the anticipation was palpable with community members queuing up more than 24 hours in advance.
750 food baskets, anchored by pork, sides, and desserts, were allocated for distribution—an offering free of tickets, bound merely by need, and limited to one per vehicle. The first recipient, Juanita Alvarez, arrived before sunrise to claim her bundle, "I arrived here this morning at 6 a.m. because, like every year, I want to be the first one," she told 7News. "I'm happy. I'm amazed because every year it's better and better, even though it's raining a lot, we're inside the car!"
Newcomer Larry Diaz shared his appreciation for the tradition and the timely aid his family would receive, "I think this is amazing and wonderful and a really good tradition I’m joining in this year,” as noted by 7News.
Alongside the vehicular procession, a limited pedestrian distribution for 75 families followed, ensuring that those without cars didn't miss out on seasonal joy. While many queued in cars braving the weather and waiting patiently for the beginning of the giveaway, CAMACOL provided clarity that the drive-thru distribution officially kicked off at 7 a.m. today.
