NEW BRITAIN, Conn. -- The Salvation Army in New Britain handed out food and gifts Thursday to families in need during the Christmas season.

Salvation Army officials said nearly 400 turned out for the event.

Every October, the Salvation Army takes requests for toys and food from families who meet income guidelines. They then take the child's size and wish of up to $25, and businesses in the community go out and buy toys and try to grant those wishes.

Officials said they received about 100 more requests from people this year who weren't sure if they'd be able to celebrate Christmas.

“I'm here because I don't have enough money for my granddaughter to get presents,” New Britain resident Gloria Marquez said.

Marquez said she’s on Social Security but has full custody of her grandchild.

“She's got a little teddy bear,” she said. “She loves teddy bears and Sorry.”

The Salvation Army packed 381 bags for the giveaway Thursday. Officials said each bag was custom packed for each family.

One of Iesha Ortiz's children requested all Hannah Montana items, for the most part.

Ortiz, a hairdresser, said her clientele has dropped by about half because of the economy.

Rocky, from the New Britain Rock Cats, and 10-year-old Grace Newton, of Kensington, were among the volunteers who helped bring some smiles those in the room.

“Some people brought toys and we sorted them out,” Newton said. “It feels good (to help).”

Despite the increased need, the Salvation Army managed get something for everyone who asked.

The Thursday event was a one-day-only event for the families who made the requests in October. Every year, the Salvation Army gets requests after the annual event and tries its best to accommodate them.