Police Spread Holiday Cheer at Annual Toy Giveaway

The Pasadena Police Department brought holiday cheer to 200 children during its annual toy giveaway, a festive community tradition led by Chief of Police Eugene Harris.

The event featured visits with Santa Claus, toy distribution, hot chocolate, cookies, holiday crafts, decorations and music on Saturday, December 20.

Community support made the celebration possible, with sponsorship from the Volkswagen Klub of Pasadena and volunteer assistance from Pasadena Police Department staff and Youth Ambassadors.

“This joyful celebration was made possible through the incredible support of the community, donors, and sponsors, as well as the dedicated Pasadena Police Department volunteers and staff,” the city’s official statement said. “Events like this reflect the power of partnership and community service, reminding us that small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.”

Harris, who has spotlighted community engagement as a top priority since his appointment in 2023, joined department personnel in welcoming families.

Youth Ambassadors, a city program established in 2001 to provide job experience to Pasadena high school students, assisted with event coordination.

The Pasadena Police Department has hosted similar holiday programs for years. Other holiday toy drives in December included the Pasadena Armenian Police Advisory Council’s 30th annual event at police headquarters, the Deliverance Tabernacle Church giveaway at Westminster Presbyterian Church, and the Pasadena Fire Department’s Spark of Love campaign.

Operation Polar Wind, a separate program run by the department’s Air Operations Section, raised more than $6,000 in 2025 and distributed toys to children across the San Gabriel Valley.

“A heartfelt thank you to our generous donors and sponsors, including the Volkswagen Klub of Pasadena, along with our dedicated Pasadena Police Department volunteers and staff and our amazing Youth Ambassadors for helping create such a joyful and meaningful celebration. Your kindness and service truly made this event special. Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday season!” the Pasadena Police Department said on Instagram.