Disadvantaged students get new supplies in Day of Giving

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Universal Studios hosted its 10th annual "Day of Giving" community outreach program Thursday. Universal is partnering with the L.A. Unified School District and its Operation School Bell program.

There's nothing like a new pair of shoes to put some pep in your step.

"We get kids just screaming, 'Look at my shoes, I can't wait to show my brother!'" said Kathy Balzer, Operation School Bell on Wheels.

About 250 students from nearly 24 LAUSD schools got not only new sneakers, but new uniforms, backpacks, books, and more on Thursday.

"I have a book of 'Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief,' and a jacket, a T-shirt and a sweater for my dad," said student Mario Hernandez.

"My favorite thing I got today is a new sweater," said student Amner Guonon.

This special group of kids was also treated to a free day at Universal Studios.

The fun-filled daylong experience is part of Universal's "Day of Giving" community outreach program, which sponsored a visit from this Operation School Bell truck, loaded with the basics every child needs to succeed in school.

But these kids are all homeless, part of LAUSD's program to help homeless students stay in school.

"We have students that sometimes we find out that they are living in the parks, they're living in their own cars, they're double-housed with other families," said Monica Resendiz, Middleton Elementary.

"Sadly, some of the kids don't come to school because they don't have the proper supplies," said Dorothea Scattaglia, director of community relations at Universal Studios. "It helps to boost their self-confidence and it makes them feel like one of the other kids, and they get to go back and brag that they were at Universal Studios for the day."

"It's awesome being here," said student Brian Mosqueda.

The kids were clearly grateful for their gifts and the people who made it all possible.

"God bless them, and thank you!" said student Aiyanna Smith.