BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) - Santa arrived in Bristol, Virginia on Christmas Eve riding on the back of a S.W.A.T. Bearcat.

Members of the Bristol community spent time on Tuesday delivering toys to kids in public housing across the city, hoping to light up their holiday.

"Now that we get to bring the community together, all as one," said volunteer Kerry Morton. "And [to] give out presents to those in need is very heartfelt."

This is the fourth year for the Christmas Toy Drop, sponsored by Universal Fibers. The group purchased multiple cars and truckloads full of toys to give out.

"Every year it's grew and we've gotten so many people together," said Lucretia Scott, Purchasing Manager for Universal Fibers. "And it's just a great thing that we've started."

The event brought together many who serve the city, each looking for a way to return the support they've received.

"This is home for us," said Sergeant Morgan O'Quinn with the Bristol, Virginia Fire Department. "This is where we work, these are children we see."

"It's basically about giving back to our community," said Bristol, Virginia Sheriff Tyrone Foster. "And I'm always about giving back to the community that I was raised in."

Foster's connection to the community he serves is what drove him to be a part of the toy drive.

"I was raised in public housing," Foster said. "And for me to give back to public housing, because I was one of these kids, it's always rewarding to give back to them."

Those participating in the drop say that seeing the joy that the kids experience makes the event so rewarding.

"When they interact with Santa and the police and sheriff and firefighters," said Foster. "It's just a great feeling."

"You spend the day coming out and giving out some gifts," said Virginia Delegate Israel O'Quinn. "Spreading Christmas cheer around the community and seeing kids light up, that's what it's all about."

"One little kid [came] up and he's like, 'I don't reckon you have a Nerf Gun?'" said Morgan. "Absolutely we do. And being able to give him what was on his wish list for Santa was really spectacular."

Volunteers like Morton said they find the reward in giving back.

"It brought tears to my face seeing these children's laughter," said Morton. "So it's really awesome for us."