'Random Acts of Kindness' group brings Christmas to Riverside kids in need

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KABC) -- A grassroots group spread some holiday cheer across the Inland Empire on Wednesday as volunteers passed out gifts to underprivileged kids.

A water heater warehouse in Riverside looked more like Santa's workshop with colorfully wrapped gifts all tagged with names and piled high on table tops.

The group called "Random Acts of Kindness" is helping to give struggling families and their children a Christmas they will remember.

"There was a time I was that kid and remember it. I remember the feeling of knowing a stranger cared," said John Gordon of the group.

Gordon founded "Random Acts of Kindness" two years ago, performing and inspiring acts of kindness in his community. The concept soon took off.

"It's amazing what the whole community does. They brought so many gifts, they are still coming in," said Syndi Bukirk, also from the group.

Volunteers wrapped over 1,000 gifts to give to kids in need.

A delivery truck acted as Santa's sleigh, which was loaded by volunteers and a few elves.

The first stop was a women's sober living home in Riverside, where Santa made a special delivery to the delight of the children.

Mother Trish Venable said she was grateful for the Christmas cheer.

"It is amazing because a lot of us were not able to come up with presents for our kids this year so this is amazing," Venable said.