23-year-old from Ontario continues holiday toy gift-giving tradition

ONTARIO, Calif. (KABC) -- Since the sixth grade, Christina Rodriguez has donated toys to those in need as part of a yearly holiday tradition.

"It's great to give back and give to the community and give children the Christmas they deserve," Rodriguez said.

Dedicated to ABC7's Spark of Love toy drive, the 23-year-old from Ontario looks to proceed with her gift-giving while updating her elf costume to spread holiday cheer.

"Recently it has changed to elf 2.0," she said before trying on her new outfit.

Rodriguez's mother Mary Ledezma, first encouraged the family to donate. Since then Rodriguez has led the charge.

"It's a very proud moment being able to go out in the community and see what you do and how it's going to affect other people," Ledezma said.

"It really touches your heart, and, you know, we as a mother-daughter team, we just really like to experience that together," she continued.

Rodriguez plans to continue dressing up and giving back well beyond her 60s and encourage others to also make a difference.

"Donate not only for the kids because it's going to make their day amazingly great and just make them so happy, but for themselves as well," Rodriguez urged. "It's going to have the same effect on them."