For families who may be having financial trouble, one Brownsville school has become a safe haven – especially on Christmas Day.

Dozens of students and parents were invited to have Christmas breakfast at P.S./I.S. 323, where they were served pancakes, donuts, fruit, orange juice and more.

Santa's helpers also got children of all ages and interests together to choose from more than 100 gifts. Some of the gifts included Barbie dolls, musical instruments and basketballs, as well as more than 100 warm winter coats.

Staff at the school say some of the families are in temporary housing or are struggling in other ways. They say it's important to promote a feeling of family for the students.

The staff has also been hosting Thanksgiving dinner to their students for more than 10 years. This is the second year the doors are open on Christmas.