Christmas came early for children in Manassas.
This week, The Fourth Wish Foundation is hosting parties for residents of the East End Mobile Home Park.
They are being held at the Espresso Portuguese American Grill that donated the venue and food.
During the first party that took place on Monday, many kids who are in need met Santa and received an array of gifts that ranged from clothing to bikes and laptops.
The foundation, which is based out of Bristow, provided the presents.
“The joy that it gives me seeing that little girl laugh when Santa gave her the bike, seeing her laugh when he gave her the doll, seeing those kids laugh when — even the teenagers when you give them the gaming systems — that does something to my heart,” Executive Director Sue Khalatbari explained.
In addition to gifts, families also received gift cards and any needed items, such as furniture, cookware and decorations.
“There’s a lot of stuff you don’t see here that we do for [them], because some of the things are too big to bring here,” Khalatbari said. “We send that to their house for them so that their kids can have some happiness at Christmas.”
Christian Martinez, a parent who attended the party, said seeing his daughter makes him happy.
“Not a lot of people do stuff like this for them or for our community like this, and I think it’s great,” Martinez added.
Individuals who would like to get involved can make a donation on The Fourth Wish Foundation website.
Those interested in partnering with The Fourth Wish Foundation may email thefourthwishfoundation@gmail.com.
