Young Elementary School students were surprised on Monday, Dec. 19, with a festive visit from some very special members of their community.

The Korean American Chamber of Commerce (KACC) is a group that endeavors to support economic development in Houston and serve as the voice of the local Korean American business community. In support of future generations, the KACC partnered with veteran civil rights activist Congressman Al Green to bring some joy to students with donations of Christmas presents to ring in the holiday season.

“With our population of kids, we are always in need of any kind of support, so it is absolutely a blessing for organizations such as the Korean American Chamber of Commerce and Congressman Al Green to help us out,” said Principal Shanica Mitchell. “Our families are desperately in need, and they really appreciate it.”

Young Elementary School exists in a food desert. With the added strain of food insecurity on families, generous contributions from community leaders like the KACC and Congressman Green are vital to the success and prosperity of the Sunnyside community’s youth.

“We are here to give gifts to you guys on behalf of Santa,” said KACC president Casey Kang, addressing the cafeteria full of excited students. “I see future doctors, lawyers, presidents, I see firemen and teachers. I want you guys to be working very hard and take the opportunity to be successful in your life. You need to study so that you can serve your community like we are here to serve you.”

Students were each given a present and Congressman Green offered them the opportunity to ask questions of their guests, then all in attendance filed onto the cafeteria stage to take a photo commemorating this special community collaboration.