It's a record breaking year for Sparky's Toy Drive.
Shatha Abonqta is one of more than 3,000 children to receive gifts as part of a Windsor Fire and Rescue Services' annual toy-drive Saturday.
Abonqta's family recently came to Canada from Syria and have started to adapt to local life by including Christmas celebrations with their own customs.
"I'm thankful for Sparky's," says the 12 year old. "The toys are going to make my brothers and sisters happy."
Organizer Rob Bremner tells CTV News record numbers are great, but they'll keep working to raise the bar because the need continues to go up every year.
"There's a lot of need in the city of Windsor this year, donations are up a little bit but it's hard to say they are keeping up with the families ... we've had 500 new registries this year," he says.
Bremner says the hard work is worth it every year.
"When you see a little kids eye light up they're getting a little package of toys that's what makes it all worthwhile," says Bremner. "I'd go back and pack another 3,000 bags anytime."
More than 150 volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure local families in need could provide kids under 14 with toys this holiday season.
— with files from CTV Windsor's Alana Hadadean and AM800's Gord Bacon.