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LOS ANGELES (CNS) - The Los Angeles Dream Center, an Echo Park-based nonprofit group working to improve conditions in under-served areas of the city, will hold its annual holiday toy and gift drive this weekend.
The Christmas ``Dreamland'' event will last from 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Dream Center, 2301 Bellevue Ave. The event is designed to provide families with Christmas cheer and the spirit of giving in the face of financial struggles and inflation.
The event is free and will include the distribution of more than 10,000 toys, 20,000 meals, 500 hams, and a festive carnival.
``Every day of the year, we try to find ways to lift burdens off our neighbors and friends throughout Los Angeles, and the best way to do that right now is to help ensure families here are showered with gifts this Christmas, despite financial hardship,'' Los Angeles Dream Center co-founder Matthew Barnett said in a statement. ``Everyone should have a chance to experience the joy of the Christmas season, and we want to celebrate this special holiday surrounded by the community we love. I encourage everyone throughout the Echo Park neighborhood and beyond to stop by, bring a friend, and join us for the best block party of the year.''
Sponsors for the event will include Shawn Meaike and Family First Life, World Vision, Planet Hope Foundation, AM570 LA Sports and the Justin Turner Foundation.