More than 1,000 people are expected Monday morning  to enjoy a free Christmas Eve Breakfast at Phil Waterford’s Manteca Ford.

The 11th annual event will take place Monday, Dec. 24, from 8 to 11 a.m. at the dealership at 555 N. Main St.

“All my needs are met,” Waterford said. “I love when people are kind to one another,” Waterford said.  “It’s a beautiful thing to witness when people, who are in need, get relief and pay it forward.”

Every child 12 and under will receive an age appropriate toy, a chance to meet Santa, and a meal.  They have also collaborated with the Second Harvest Food Bank this year. Every family will receive a 40-pound bag of groceries — nothing processed —  and fresh fruit. 

Waterford said the objective is to bridge the gap for struggling families between Christmas and New Year’s.

“Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, except for some people,” Waterford said. “You see we all take so many things for granted in life, especially around the holidays. I say that because many kids tend to be upset, as they did not get the right color iPhone. There are kids that may not even get Christmas presents because their parents have to buy important essentials, such as, food . . .  So many families wish that they could give their kids a good Christmas, but sometimes they just can’t. Just imagine how hard it is to explain to a kid that Santa may not be able to give much this year, as parents may have been laid off or do not have the financial resources for gifts or extras. Therefore, I encourage everyone to take some time and give what you can this holiday season.”

 Pastor Mike Dillman who is among those assisting the effort noted there is a “dire need” for new and unwrapped toys for boys and girls 12 and under. Dillman is asking anyone who wishes to help to drop the toys off at the dealership through Sunday, Dec. 23.

“Every year, I am blessed with the opportunity of meeting amazing people, who are here for the outreach, as well as the volunteers,” Waterford said. “I know that enough people care, we can change anything  The entire community comes together to help serve the less fortunate. Every little bit helps.”

Assisting with the event are Inter City Action, Foster Farms, Crystal Diary, NuLaid Eggs in Ripon, Party Warehouse of Tracy, Bowling Association, Walgreens Manteca, Fagundes Meats, Manteca Rotary, Cal Solar, Walmart, Ray of Hope, Dwight Dampier from Stormie Janitorial, and an “angel that shows up every year, giving the gift of warmth, handmade quilts and blankets.”

The event has served more than 10,000 free breakfasts since its inception.

For more information call 209-239-3561 or email tina@mantecaford.net.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com