COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus are helping thousands of El Paso County residents get in the holiday spirit, as part of a county celebration focused on the needy.

"I raise three kids on my own so it's difficult especially around the holidays to give them the things that they want and they need," Hope Davis, a Colorado Springs resident said.

More than 500 volunteers and a number of local donors work all year long to make sure every family has a little bit of fun this winter.

Free haircuts, books, blankets and toys are all up for grabs as you walk through the Feed the Children.

"This is about not the county filling the gap but the community, filling the gap and that's what they've done all the money that's been donated to bring the food in to be able to provide a meal or two to a family that's not sure where the next meal is coming from," Amy Lathen, El Paso County Commissioner said.

Over the last four years, the number of people using food stamps has doubled to more than 69,000 people so the one-day event has turned into a tradition for those who are truly in need.