It’s the season to be jolly for 500 students from Hueco Elementary School, who were surprised with gifts from Grammy-nominated pop star Khalid on Dec. 2, making their holiday season truly special.
The Americas High School graduate spread happiness by handing out toys to thrilled students during the 8th annual "Christmas with Khalid" event at the Boys and Girls Club.
“It’s a microphone!” shouted Ashley Carillo, a kindergartner, while unwrapping her present. “I’m super excited!”
“Christmas with Khalid” is a beloved holiday tradition that offers children a joyful experience with music, celebration and personalized gifts. This year, students sang along to festive songs like "Last Christmas," while being entertained by “Dancing Bobby,” the brand ambassador for Charlie Clark Nissan El Paso, which sponsored the event with a $5,000 contribution for gifts.
“I got to meet a celebrity. I got to spend time with my friends. We got free gifts, and I met a person that has really good energy, and I hope I can see him next year,” said Giaren Morales, a fifth grader, who was excited to try out his new Mandalorian headphones on the bus ride back to campus.
The event highlighted Khalid's ongoing commitment to supporting youth and giving back to his community through The Great Khalid Foundation, which aims to empower, support, and uplift children throughout El Paso.
“It's worth it because we get to give back,” said Linda Wolfe, the foundation’s president. “We see these kids that some of them won't have a gift this Christmas, and we're able to give that joy and that peace and help the mothers and fathers out by just kind of supplementing the gift. And we're giving back to the community.”
Wolfe explained that Hueco Elementary School was selected through an application process. Elementary school and district personnel from the El Paso region can apply on behalf of their school, explaining why their students would benefit from the program. To date, the Foundation has distributed 3,500 toys during the Christmas season.
Ariana Torres, a fifth grader, was not only happy to receive a gift but was also excited to meet Khalid.
“I got to meet Khalid, which is really exciting because I’ve been listening to him,” Torres said.
Third-grader Madeline Smith wanted to thank Khalid for her toy magical mixer.
“He’s sweet and kind,” Smith said about the singer.