Former Gary Mayor Rudy Clay remembered with holiday toy drive

GARY, Ind. (WLS) -- For families that are struggling, there may not have been many toys under the Christmas tree, but the late mayor of Gary, Indiana, wanted children in such families to know they are not forgotten.

Saturday, that message came through loud and clear at a toy giveaway he started 13 years ago.

The organization started collecting gifts eight weeks ago to ensure each child walks away with at least two toys.

Thousands of kids and families lined up waiting to walk through the doors.

It is welcomed help for Candice Sturgis. With two kids and another on the way, she's not working right now and appreciates the kindness of strangers.

"I was only able to get them one thing, a cheap thing," she said. "I'm unable to work so it's wonderful."

This is the 13th year for the Rudy Clay's 13th annual Toys for Kids Santa Forgot, But God Remembered event, and the second year without its founder.

"My dad loved the community," said Rudy Clay Jr. "He cared about people and he saw the need of less fortunate children he took up that task and become a servant."

Thousands of toys are made available to struggling families in the area. Kids choose what they want so they don't feel neglected during the Christmas season.

"It's pretty nice, all the kids getting gifts, it's real nice," said Jordan Smith.

There is even an appearance by Santa himself.

In the end, it is the donations of many contributors that make this happen.

"We can see the need of people who just don't have enough. Some are just basic necessity as a toy it's heart wrenching," said Pastor Edward Simms.

The Clay family plans to continue to give back for years to come.

"We're just grateful to keep my dad's legacy alive and keep it going," Clay Jr. said.