MIAMI (WSVN) - CAMACOL is keeping a tradition alive in South Florida. The organization began handing out thousands of vouchers, Wednesday morning, for their 32nd annual holiday basket distribution.
“I was first,” said Letty Lee. “Me and my best friend.”
Lee is among the thousands of people who lined up for CAMACOL’s Christmas basket food drive — a charity event hosted once a year in Miami.
The donated bags are filled with food items and beverages related to the holidays — feeding nearly 3,000 needy families from various communities.
“A good opportunity for us this year, because you know, all the Irma and all the stuff that’s been going on in the community and people’s lives — things like that,” said Lee.
Located on the corner of 14th Avenue and West Flager Street, the ticket line opened Wednesday morning, but people have been lined up for days.
For some people, waiting in line has even become a tradition. “Well, because this is, you know tradition every year,” said Indiana Barbarra, who was waiting in line. “The CAMACOL they give, you know, like a lot of food to help people.”
Juanita, who also received a voucher, waited in line for days. “Go home and rest,” she said upon receiving her voucher. “After five, six days here. Oh, my God.”
Juanita added, “We got here early after the turkey day, which was Thursday, the 23rd.”
Every year people wait in massive lines that wrap around several blocks, but some of these participants are no strangers to long lines.
In the aftermath of hurricane Irma, hundreds of families waited for hours to receive disaster relief aid, like food and financial assistance. But they said the wait was worth it.
“Hurricane Irma may have contributed to having more families come over,” said CAMACOL’s Vice President Robert Gutierrez. “With getting a ticket, all you really need is your photo ID and come over. We don’t ask for any financials or anything like that. If you’re in need, you’re entitled to get one.”
“Thank God to the Chamber of Commerce that we’re gonna get these items on the 13th so that we’re able to cook for the Christmas Eve meal,” said Lee.
CAMACOL’s doors opened at 8 a.m. for voucher distribution. Those with vouchers will then receive their basket, which can feed a family of 10, on Dec. 13.
Copyright 2024 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.