CALIFORNIA: On Friday, December 14, the community of Lindsay, California will come together for a Christmas Celebration featuring a parade, free food and toys for children.

The local Sikh community will contribute by cooking full meals for all attendees. Last year, the Lindsay Sikh community donated $500 to purchase toys for the city’s annual Santa Night, a 25-year-old tradition where more than 1,300 children receive a gift from Santa Claus. All of the toys are donated or collected by officers of the Lindsay Police Officers Association.

“Everyone wants to see the beautiful smiles on children’s faces when they receive their toy and food,” said Inkonkar Kaur, speaking on behalf of the local Sikhs last year. “We always want to share happiness with others in our community.”

Raj Singh, owner of Chevron City Food Mart in Lindsay, said there are about five Sikh families that make their home in Lindsay and another five Sikh families who own businesses in town but live elsewhere.

“The Sikh community has always been donating money for the Christmas toy drive and serving food at local parades,” Singh said.

The Lindsay Chamber of Commerce, Lindsay Police Department, Lindsay Sikh Community, The Spirit and the Bride Kingdom coalition are sponsoring the celebration.