The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department hosted 400 foster children Sunday for the annual “999 for Kids” holiday event in Whittier.
The party took place between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday at the Sheriff’s Training and Regional Services Center, according to sheriff’s officials. It was held with the Department of Children and Family Services.
The children got to meet Santa Claus and were treated to a winter wonderland of real snow, a petting zoo, face-painting and food provided by McDonald’s.
Each of the children were described as facing challenges including severe disabilities, abuse, neglect or domestic violence, sheriff’s officials said.
Named “999” for the law enforcement code “Officer Needs Help,” 999 for Kids has supported foster children with severe physical and mental challenges since 1985. The program raises funds to support these children with resources including specialized sports wheel chairs, Braille machines to enhance learning, computers to facilitate educational growth, specially designed classes tailored for unique learning needs and medically oriented toys and games to bring joy and comfort.