Thousands filed into the Los Angeles Mission for the holiday celebration. Lizzie Anderson traveled all the way from Riverside to receive a meal at the event.
"I think this is wonderful. I think it's a great thing they're doing," Anderson said.
About 4,000 homeless people were served chicken, macaroni, vegetables and much more. Brand new toys were donated to at least 1,000 children.
"We're seeing an increase probably of 10 to 15 percent in the number of people coming right now. But the number of people in Skid Row has actually doubled since August. We're doing the best we can with the donations we have," said Los Angeles Mission President Herbert Smith.
Smith's wife said she was touched by the number of children at the mission.
"It breaks my heart to see the children come and have such need," said Kathy Smith.
