Underprivileged youth treated to holiday fun at Ruth Moore Christmas Party

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The Ruth Moore Christmas party, a tradition in South L.A., brings holiday cheer to underprivileged students.

The kids treated to this year's festive event had no problem returning to school during Christmas vacation week for an evening of fun.

Santa showed up to the packed auditorium at Fremont High School baring gifts for all to see.

The kids' faces lit up with glee as they received all kinds of goodies. However, some children wanted something more than a present.

"[I want] for all of my family and the people I haven't seen for a while to come so I can spend time with them," student Jazmin Manzo said.

It's the 49th year for the Ruth Moore annual Christmas party. It's been going after all these years because it's the holidays and it's all about the spirit of giving.

Ruth Moore started the Christmas party to make sure underprivileged children did not suffer during the holidays. Her daughter has continued the legacy.

"For many of our children, this maybe one of the very few gifts they receive. For some of them, it may be the only gift they receive," Michelle Moore said.

The children in need were full of hope and cheer, knowing that thanks to donations from the community they were not forgotten this year.

"This means a lot to me because Christmas is about giving," student Anthony Sanchez said.