BY LISA DENEAL, POST-TRIBUNE CORRESPONDENT
GARY -- Devyn Dotson, 6, of Gary, sat on her brand new bicycle Saturday during the annual "Toys for Children Santa Forgot, but God Remembered" at the Genesis Convention Center.
Devyn and her big sister, Lexus Dotson, 15, were also surrounded by other free toys they were given.
"Our grandmother told our mom about the giveaway and mom woke up this morning asking if we wanted to go," Lexus said.
The two-hour giveaway included more than 100 bicycles and tables stacked with toys, board games and dolls that filled the Indiana Hall.
Volunteers had tables lined assembly-style to make it easier for families to choose their gifts.
Even the adults got an opportunity to get some free clothing, boots and shoes.
Gary Mayor Rudy Clay said this is the 11th year for the giveaway, which always takes place in January after the Christmas hoopla.
"We have a nice, big crowd here. Families were standing outside two hours before the doors opened," Clay said. "Each family gets one bicycle and to carry out of here all of the toys and clothes they can handle. It is really about giving to the community, to the people of this great city."
Families were entertained by a DJ and a visit from Gary SouthShore RailCats mascot Rusty the RailCat.
Michelle White of Gary came to the giveaway with her daughters, Carah Lockwood, 9, and Chairel Lockwood, 11. All three loaded up with toys and games.
Carah said she was also getting some toys for cousins who could not make the event.
"I got some things for me too," she said.
White said she was happy to come to the event.
"We are getting as much stuff as we can carry," she said.
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