Community helps “Hood Santa” after thieves steal hundreds of toys meant for children in need

Following the theft of half a truckload of goods intended for underprivileged children, the community gave Tito Rodriguez, widely known as the “Hood Santa,” an early Christmas surprise.

Sgt. Dan Keene of the California Highway Patrol stated, “We’ve been working with KCAL for 35 years on the CHiPs for Kids program and the unfortunate loss that your organization had.” “On behalf of KCAL, through CHiPs for Kids program and all of the KCAL viewers we’d like to donate.”

To assist Rodriguez in replacing some of the gifts meant for the children, Keene and his colleagues brought four patrol cars loaded with toys. Rodriguez had two days till his yearly toy distribution at Long Beach’s MacArthur Park. He will be wearing the Santa costume and delivering gifts to thousands of families and children who are among the most in need for the fourteenth year.

Rodriguez suffered a significant setback last Sunday when burglars got into his decorated U-Haul and took items that people had contributed to support his cause. He said that someone stole the valuable shipment after cutting the lock.

Along with CHP’s assistance, a number of people, such as real estate developer Kody Suryan, who showed up with gifts and $2,000 worth of gift cars, helped Rodriguez recover his losses.

“I’m feeling good,” Rodriguez declared. “The people in the community have come together to support what transpired there. Many thanks to all of you. We appreciate KCAL sharing the story. It’s incredible how a small tale can move people to such a deep level of affection that they want to help the children. I feel fantastic.

Rodriguez will still take donations for the giveaway on Saturday.

Since 1990, when she started working as the Orange County reporter for KCAL9, Michele has been a huge fan of the station! She covers both KCAL9 and CBS2 from the field.

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