For a few hours yesterday, Skyline Church in La Mesa might as well have been North Pole South, as the Larry Himmel Neighborhood Foundation handed out hundreds of free toys to local families and tried to dial down the holiday stress for parents and caregivers.
Volunteers and community partners rushed to sort toys, match gifts to children’s ages, and ensure that families left with wrapped presents in hand. The giveaway took place from 9 AM to 1 PM at Skyline Church, located at 11330 Campo Rd. in La Mesa. Organizers said every child would receive a free gift while supplies lasted, according to the Larry Himmel Neighborhood Foundation.
Volunteers Power The Holiday Push
The foundation teamed up with Skyline Church and national relief group Convoy of Hope to pull off the event. Local footage showed volunteers handing out toys, loading families' cars and guiding attendees through the distribution, as reported by CBS 8.
A Legacy Of Helping Families
The toy giveaway is part of a broader program started by Miles Himmel in memory of his father, longtime KFMB reporter Larry Himmel. The foundation runs year-round community efforts, from back-to-school haircut drives to smaller assistance programs, according to the Times of San Diego.
Holiday Help All Over The County
Similar toy and food distributions unfolded around San Diego on Saturday, reflecting ongoing demand for holiday support among low-income and unhoused families. Community calendars and service groups listed multiple events that day across the county, including toy giveaways and meal distributions, according to the San Diego Coalition.
How To Support Future Giveaways
Residents who want to back upcoming giveaways or learn about volunteer opportunities can find donation and contact information on the foundation’s website. More details and donation options are available on the Larry Himmel Neighborhood Foundation donation page.
