‘Twas the night before Christmas Eve in the village of Hempstead. Kids received free gifts at the fourth annual “Winter Wonderland” at Denton Green Park.

“The things I liked the most were the presents and the hot chocolate. The hot chocolate tastes beautiful," said Isabelle Victor, of Hempstead.

“I got this dentist thingy. When I grow up, I really want to be a dentist," said Sophia Paul, of Hempstead.

Families in Hempstead were treated with Christmas carols, and kids got their pictures taken with Santa.

Village officials collected the toys with help from local businesses.

"Christmas is a time of giving, and unfortunately there are many people that really don't have the means to get gifts themselves," said Waylyn Hobbs Jr., mayor of the Village of Hempstead.

A toy drive also took place in Roosevelt.

Businesses and people in the community donated gifts for the 44th annual Christmas Toy Giveaway at the I Support Roosevelt Youth Center.

“It means the world to the children to know that they are loved, to know that they are appreciated, to know that they are embraced, and that they are thought of," said Pastor Arthur L. Mackey Jr., toy giveaway organizer.

Parents say the giveaway in Roosevelt helps them put toys under the tree.

“It was a big help a lot of help yes. I appreciate anything that I can get. It's hard right now because everything is so expensive," said Iasia Freeman, of Hempstead.

In addition to toys, winter clothing was provided to people in Roosevelt and Hempstead to keep them warm during the cold months.