Last Saturday, Universal Studios Hollywood joined M.E.N.D. to host their annual “Christmas in Spring” charity event in Pacoima.

M.E.N.D. (Meet Each Need with Dignity) inspires to bring joy and hope to low income families. For the 27th year, both companies welcome hundreds of families on Saturday to an afternoon of games, food, and entertainment.

Some of Universal Studios Hollywood’s most famous characters came out to interact with families, including SpongeBob SquarePants, King Julien, and Puss-in-Boots. Families eventually met Santa Claus alongside the “very merry, mischievous” Minions for photos and a gift.

The “Christmas in Spring” is a charity event sponsored by Universal Studios Hollywood and it’s “Discover A Star” Foundation. Over 16,000 individuals have been able to benefit over the course of the 27 years of the event. It’s wonderful to see so many team members volunteer their time to help those that are less fortunate.

If you’d like more information regarding M.E.N.D., be sure to check out their website http://mendpoverty.org