CHRISTMAS IN JULY

For the past 10 summers, the WBC has taken 200 inner city youth to the Santa Monica Pier for what we affectionately call "Christmas in July".  Buses arrive by 8:30 am and they are met by a sea (over 70) of WBC members, members families, and other volunteers for a special day.  In the morning, the kids attend 3 programs consisting of Arts and Crafts and a ride on the Carousel, a visit to the SM Aquarium, and a Magic or Reptile show.  When Pacific Park opens at 11 am, our kids are first in line with their wrist bands affixed, ready to ride as many rides as they possibly can.  A BBQ lunch is provided in the private shaded area, then it's back to the rides and carnival games.  Each child generally wins one or more prizes and in the event that doesn't happen, the WBC is prepared with prizes to give out at the end.  On the way back to the buses, each child is handed a gift bag or backpack filled with books (supplied by Bookends) and school supplies.  It's not unusual to hear our little guests tell the WBC volunteers that "today was the best day of our lives."  Many of our volunteers echo that same sentiment.

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