The students, members of the University Ambassador program, collected the books and clothing over the past couple of weeks for the children at three Head Start sites operated by the Latin American Civic Association (LACA).

The Ambassadors hope to provide each child at the sites with at least one book to read and clothing to keep them warm over the winter months through their annual "Cuddle and Read" program. The University Ambassadors serve as hosts for prospective students when they visit the campus.

"We are very excited to be participating in this effort which benefits children in our community as well as our students, who get a chance to spend time with these children," said Ludim Seja de Manzano, Director of Student Outreach and Recruitment, which oversees the ambassador program.

The CSUN students will be delivering the presents on Dec. 15 at the following times and sites:

• 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Napa Center, 19010 Napa St. in Northridge.
• 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Sepulveda Center, 15435 Rayen St. in North Hills.
• 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Kalisher Center, 454 Kalisher St., in San Fernando.

LACA oversees Head Start schools throughout the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys. Approximately 1,400 children between the ages of 3 and 5 are currently enrolled at 30 sites. The children receive free lunch, free medical and dental care, and their families can receive family counseling and other social services.

LACA now also administers a low-income housing program, and provides affordable housing to families on Blythe Street in Panorama City and in North Hills.

California State University, Northridge has more than 27,000 full- and part-time students and offers 48 bachelor's and 39 master's degrees. Founded in 1958, it is the only four-year university in the San Fernando Valley.