LA HABRA : Christmas Spirit Is Alive and Well

Gracia Borja held her youngest child in her arms as her eight other children waited for a turn to hit a star-shaped pinata Monday afternoon during a neighborhood Christmas celebration.

About 150 children and their families from two of La Habra’s poorest neighborhoods attended the second annual event, held at the La Habra Boxing Club and organized by community activists.

“This is so nice,” Borja, 37, said in Spanish. “My husband only makes enough money for the family to buy food to eat, and we won’t be able to get presents for the kids this year, so I’m thankful for this party.”

Rose Espinoza said many of the guests were children that she and her sister tutor in her garage in the Corona neighborhood. Tutoring, she said, encourages them to stay in school and out of gangs.

As part of the celebration, the children were treated to performances by the Chicano Poets Society, traditional Matachines dances by a group of neighborhood children and a visit by Santa Claus, who handed out sweat shirts, T-shirts and small toys. There also were Christmas carols in Spanish and English.

Highlighting the event, however, was an awards presentation for six of Espinoza’s students.

The award winners included Tony Hernandez, Lydia Jimenez and her brother Juan, all who received awards for math and reading.

Luis Borja, 11, was honored for “never giving up,” while Lupe Frias, 15, was recognized for “helping others (with homework) even though she has her own homework to do.”

Brenda Estrada, 13, was honored for always trying to keep up her grades in school.

Student Luis Borja, who has been tutored by Espinoza since she started her free service in 1991, said he has learned to “do my homework, because it’s going to help me in the future when I become a fireman.”

Members of the Chicano Poets Society performed skits encouraging the children to get an education and persevere.

Epinoza’s son, Chris, 11, recited a poem for his peers.

“Learn to be the best, accomplish all your hopes and dreams, then you will have time to rest,” he said.

“I’m basically telling other kids like me to stay in school and achieve their dreams because then they’ll have a happy life,” Chris said.

The event was sponsored by the La Habra Neighborhood Housing Service, which provided about $500 for presents and refreshments.

“We did this for the kids,” said Avelina Rosholt, an NHS spokeswoman. “These are underprivileged kids, and we wanted them to get a Christmas gift and have some fun.”

Families who attended said they were appreciative.

“This is perfect for the community because we’re all poor here,” said Ventura Gonzales, who brought her three grandchildren. “It’s inspiring for the kids.”