Families seeking asylum got the chance on Friday to feel more comfortable by joining a Three Kings Day celebration at the Bronx’s Sanctuary Shelter.  

Those in attendance took part in all of the day’s festivites – from the Rosca de Reyes cakes, presents for the kids and much more.  

“We’ve found a way to bring families together, to bring joy and celebration into something that would be a normalcy back at home,” said Council Member Amanda Farias. “This is their home, and this is where they’re celebrating in the most welcoming and genuine way.” 

The city says over 31,000 asylum seekers have come to New York City since the spring, with most of them coming from Latin America.  

“What we take for granted, just sitting down and having a meal… really goes a long way and it makes a big difference,” said Leslie Armstrong, assistant vice president of Volunteers of America’s NYC Program and Shelter Services.