Bolivian Children Receive Charity Christmas Gifts

 

Children from low-income families in Bolivia enjoyed a touch of the Christmas spirit on Thursday (December 23) as a charity organization gave out gifts in La Paz.

Parents and their children waited outside Hernando Siles stadium awaiting the distribution of thousands of gifts by a team or volunteers. Some had waited in line all through the night.

Around 50,000 gifts — including dolls, cars, soccer balls and Barbies — were wrapped and ready for distribution to eager crowds.

The presents — which had been financed by businesses, politicians and Bolivian citizens — arrived by the truck full.

Volunteers came mainly from religious organization Company of Jesus and from a local radio station.

The assembled crowds of children eagerly awaited their Christmas gift.

[Monica Caceres Silva]:
"I would like Father Christmas to bring me a Barbie house."

Attendees were also treated to a special festive show, featuring music and dancing.

Everyone was welcome and organizers said there were enough gifts to go around.

[Geraldo Miranda, Volunteer]:
"All the children who came in received a toy. If there were children outside, they are the latecomers, but if they enter, they will receive their gift."

Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in Latin America and for many attendees this was their chance to secure a Christmas gift.

Many were delighted with their new toys.

Beatriz Gutierrez was among the mothers who brought her children to the event.

[Beatriz Gutierrez, Mother]:
"The children have been dreaming about this for a month. They are excited and that's why I brought them here."

Even heavy rain did not put off some families, who did their best to shelter themselves under plastic bags.

However, once the gifts had been received, the wait seemed worth it for many.

Outside, children played as happy mothers looked on.

The campaign has been active for over 15 years and has become an annual event in the capital.