Food, clothes and toys bring hundreds together for luncheon in Paris

PARIS, Tex. (KXII) - For over three decades, Christians in Action has hosted a Christmas luncheon so anyone in Paris can grab a free meal along with clothing and toys for the kids just days before Christmas.

" I didn't think it would grow to this," Don Walker told News 12.

The lines were steady for over an hour as hundreds of people flocked to the Paris Farmers Market Thursday for the annual Christians in Action Christmas Luncheon.

The event started by Don Walker in 1984, has continued to provide food, clothing and toys for anyone in need during the holidays.

"I could see that it was helping a lot of folks and children...I love to help children," Walker added.

Every person was given the chance to take home meals provided by Save-a-Lot.

"I know they take carryouts and they take it to their mother or they take it to their fathers that's in their house and can't get out and get it," Walker said.

The big help for families during the Christmas luncheon is the toys.

Many are donated by Toys for Tots, while others are donated by families. Some kids had their names drawn for new bikes, while others were provided with gently used bikes.

Patti Rosher is one of those that took home a gently used bike and says it will make the perfect gift for a 2-year-old girl she loves.

"I've got a box and I'm gonna wrap it and everything," Rosher exclaimed.

Rosher says events such as this are the true meaning of Christmas.

"A bunch of people would be hungry. The clothes and everything is a miracle."

Folks were also able to take home items like blankets, gloves and socks for winter.

Kids had a chance to visit with Santa Claus and join others kids at the coloring table.

Walker says Paris comes together as a community each year to help its own.

"But if it weren't for people, we would never be able to do it."