Bend Christmas party spreads cheer to those in need

An annual tradition at Bend’s Community Center brought Christmas spirit to many in the community on Sunday.

BCC’s Christmas Dinner and Party was held Sunday afternoon.

Many families came through to eat and get gifts handed out by Santa himself.

Thousands of gifts were handed out, many of them donated and some of them from the Toys for Tots program.

The gifts for boys and girls were divided into categories ranging from newborn to 18 years old.

The gift-giving puts a smile on the face of Bend’s Community Center Executive Director Linda Heatley.

“It just means so much to me to see that,” Heatley said. “I’ve had so many people come up to me today ,thanking me — and that’s the best part of it.”

A variety of gifts were handed out, including clothing, toys and games

Helping Santa pass out those gifts were elves from the Morgan family of Bend.

Heatley says the event brought Christmas joy to everyone, including all of the volunteers.