MIAMI (WSVN) - In anticipation of the holiday season, South Florida residents started forming lines overnight along Northwest 16th Avenue as they geared up for CAMACOL’s food drive.
For almost four decades, CAMACOL has been a beacon of hope, providing food baskets to families in need. The event kicked off at 8 a.m. at CAMACOL headquarters, located at 1401 West Flagler Street and 14th Avenue.
Food baskets were distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and among those eagerly awaiting their turn is Jose Leonarte, who has been a participant for 49 years.
“Every year I do this, you know, for my family and they give a good basket, good products for the whole family and I’m glad that CAMACOL does that every year,” he said.
People like Juanita Alvarez depend on this and have made it a fun tradition. She shared her reason for being in line since 10 a.m. Tuesday for the giveaway.
“It really helps us because I have a lot of family,” she said. “They really give us a lot for the holidays. That’s why we come every year.”
For the past 16 years Juanita has been first in line to receive the goods, often getting in line early the day before.
Wednesday’s Holiday Food Basket Giveaway holds special significance as it honors Mario O. Gutierrez, past President of CAMACOL and PepsiCo executive. Gutierrez’s vision initiated this food drive almost four decades ago, starting with just 20 baskets.
“Mario Gutierrez was one of the founders of this effort which is ‘Las Habas de Navidad’ or the ‘Holiday of Christmas Baskets,'” said Joe Chi, current President of CAMACOL.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava was at the event to participate in a news conference once the food drive began.
“Really, this is now a holiday tradition in this neighborhood and we’re so happy to be able to spread a little holiday love and joy throughout our community,” said Levine Cava. “Especially for people who need a little extra helping hand this holiday season because you know what? The costs are going up, but not so much our ability to pay. Cost of living out of sight, so a little extra hand thanks to our wonderful sponsors.”
Sponsoring partners gave non-perishables items, sodas, deserts, coffee, even pork shoulder. This is why people in line say its worth it.
This year’s drive-thru giveaway only required an ID for participation. Cars began lining up as of early Tuesday near loanDepot Park.
Copyright 2026 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.