[The following press release comes courtesy of Crespi Carmelite High].

The buses are ordered, the cookies are baking and Santa’s sleigh is fueled and ready to fly to Encino this on Saturday, December 3, 2011. The students and faculty at Crespi Carmelite High School will spread holiday cheer this year to more than sixty families in need from noon to till two o’clock on Saturday at the Eleventh Annual Christmas at Crespi.

"Crespi makes a difference to all these little children that came by to pick up toys," said Deacon Chavez of Guardian Angel Parish. "They look forward to coming every year and enjoying Christmas with all of Crespi."

Students at the high school have adopted San Fernando Valley families as part of the school's winter toy and gift drive. There will be music, games, refreshments, and a special visit from Santa Claus, who will distribute the donated toys and gifts to visiting families. Crespi students and faculty invite the community to attend this event from noon to 2 p.m. in the Commons, located in the Crespi Fine Arts Building, at 5031 Alonzo Ave.

"This event defines what Christmas is all about, giving and helping others," said Student Activities Director Dona Long.

The Christmas at Crespi program benefits families from Our Lady of Grace Parish in Encino and Guardian Angel Parish in Pacoima. Any additional gifts are donated to the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Fire Department toy drives.