Children got what all children want Saturday at The Schooner, fried chicken, french fries — and toys.

The annual Kiwanis Christmas party was host to almost a hundred children and their families as the group gathered to celebrate the season and give to children.

“We gathered a list from school nurses in the Mid County area of students who might need some help during the holidays, and we invited them to bring their families to a lunch that ends with gifts, “ Mid County Kiwanis Vice President, Hunter Fabian said.

The elementary age children eagerly awaited the beginning of the program, which included the singing of Christmas Carols lead by PN-G Indian Spirit and President of the Key Club, Beau Pent and members of both, PN-G and Nederland Key Clubs, who are sponsored by the Kiwanis Club.

The high school and middle school students spoke on the purpose of the Kiwanis sponsored clubs, which is to develop leadership skills.

The highlight of the afternoon was the arrival of the big guy himself. Santa Claus made his grand entrance and joined in the caroling while children lined up to visit with him.

After Santa left to finish his Christmas duties, the children feasted while spying the table of toys. When given the go ahead, a flurry of happy children flooded the corner of the room hoping to walk away with the perfect toy.

Footballs, basketballs, baby dolls, board games and more made the little faces shine with delight.

For the past 35 years, The Schooner has donated their restaurant to the Mid County Kiwanis to host the annual luncheon. Owners, Connie and Antonia Megas, never charge for hosting the event and even do most of the cooking themselves.

“They are awesome folks and pour out their hearts for the community,” former Kiwanis president Robert Reynolds said.

Mid County Kiwanis President, Lane Emmitt practically had to pull Connie Megas out of the kitchen to accept a plaque the club brought to thank him.

“We are the recipients of your grace and goodwill and we cannot thank you enough,” Reynolds told the Megas family.

The Mid County Kiwanis Club is a service organization whose mission is "Serving the Children of the World.” The group also provides scholarships to local students and founded Key Clubs.