Carol Johnson of Petersburg, New Jersey was on the hunt at the workshop, which moved its headquarters from the North Pole to the Robins' Nest campus for Wednesday and Thursday.
Robins' Nest is a non-profit organization that provides more than 40 programs for children and families, including support for foster and adoptive families. Johnson adopted her two older boys - she's now fostering an 18-month-old and a 6-month-old.
Many parents served as elves for the day. They were able to select four new gifts for each child, with the help of volunteers who often doubled as consultants.
"We've been getting footballs and basketballs and that "Operation" game has been pretty popular," said volunteer George Farley.
This year's Santa's Workshop will provide toys for about 800 children. It's a program that's grown over its 16 years.
"It's incredibly empowering for our families to feel that sense of hope in their lives," said Thomas J. Sommer of Robin's Nest, Inc.
Recipients of the toys are limited to families Robins' Nest has helped throughout the year, but donations are still being accepted.
To learn how to donate, visit www.robinsnestinc.org or call 856-881-8689.
