Feed the Children event serves thousands in Colorado Springs

Nearly 500 volunteers are bringing the spirit of the holidays to thousands of their neighbors.

This is the 14th year of the Feed the Children event in Colorado Springs. The event helps families receiving assistance from the Department of Human Services by providing food, toys and blankets.

“Lots of folks in the community are coming together to serve families in need,” Rebecca Jacobs said. She is the El Paso County Department of Human Services director and helped organize the event.

Free activities included pictures with Santa, vision and dental screenings, and haircuts.

“I’m just so amazed at the generosity and the way they have it set up for all the children to do activities,” saidDonna Hrbacek, who was there with her grandkids.

Organizers hope the event helps brighten the holidays for everyone who attends. Some parents said they were thankful for the opportunity to celebrate with their family.

“We did a family picture, haircuts and face paintings,”Charisse Alvaran said. “I just appreciate them doing this for all the families out here that need it.”

Organizers said the event wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of those in the community.

“Once people come out and they help one year, it kind of becomes addictive,” said El Paso County Commissioner and event sponsor Peggy Littleton. “You want to come back, and keep giving and giving, because that’s what Christmas is all about.”