Police officers and local businesses teamed up to spread holiday cheer to roughly 300 children and their families during a festive gathering Thursday evening at the San Jose Police Activities League (PAL) complex in East San Jose.

At this annual celebration, kids not only receive holiday gifts but also get the opportunity to connect with local law enforcement in a friendly, relaxed setting.

The event is organized by PAL with the support of several community partners. The San Jose Police Foundation contributed toy donations, the office of Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen provided financial support, and Shoe Palace donated hundreds of pairs of shoes.

Invited children participate in PAL’s youth sports programs, many of them from East San Jose. With six decades of history, PAL has become a long-standing presence in the community, supporting multiple generations of local youth.

This year’s festivities also featured three San Francisco 49ers players—CJ West, Sebastian Valdez, and Alfred Collins—who posed for photos and spent time with the kids.

Attendees enjoyed bounce houses, free food, and the chance to win gift cards and bicycles through a raffle.

“We try to bring the community together with police officers because that’s the mission of San Jose PAL: creating bonds between the community and law enforcement,” said Antonia Pimentel, PAL’s executive director. Police Chief Paul Joseph, who also attended, added that the children’s smiles were the greatest reward.

“Many of these kids wouldn’t have much during the holidays, so being able to brighten their day and show them a more approachable side of policing is a win-win,” Joseph said.