For nearly two decades, the Outlawz Car Club has embodied the true spirit of giving — transforming horsepower into hope for Kern County’s youngest patients. What began as a simple idea in 2006 — a few friends gathering toys for children spending Christmas in the hospital — has grown into one of Bakersfield’s most cherished holiday traditions.
This year marks the 18th Annual Outlawz CC Toy Drive, and for the first time ever, the celebration will include a Car Show — bringing together classic cars, community, and compassion to support Kern Medical’s Pediatric Department.
The Toy Drive was born out of a simple but powerful mission: to bring comfort and joy to hospitalized children during the holidays. As word spread, the car community’s generosity overflowed — literally. One of the first participants arrived with a station wagon packed to the roof with toys, enough to brighten not only Christmas morning, but months beyond.
Year after year, the event grew. Soon, the Outlawz were collecting enough toys to last all year — from dolls and books to crayons, children’s DVDs, and even electronic playsets. With the success of their raffles and community donations, they began equipping the hospital’s pediatric playroom with interactive toys, colorful rugs, and even custom hot-rod strollers — complete with flames and chrome detailing — giving kids the chance to “cruise” the hospital halls in style.
As the event expanded, so did its heart. The Outlawz began providing fuel and food gift cards to families whose children required out-of-town medical transfers — meeting needs that go far beyond the holiday season.
Leading the charge is Jeff Hill, Vice President of the Outlawz Car Club — better known to many as Hot Rod Santa. A longtime Kern Medical nurse with over 30 years of service (including 18 years in the NICU), Jeff understands what these young patients face every day.
“At first glance, the kids look like any other,” Jeff shares, “but as I hold or pose with them, I can feel the IV lines, the feeding tubes, and the heart murmurs. I know what they go through — and it’s incredible to see them smile with Santa, even for just a moment.”
Jeff and the Outlawz not only deliver gifts to pediatric patients but also visit the hospital’s specialty clinics, where many children are immune-compromised and can’t visit public spaces or malls. Each December, Santa makes his rounds throughout Kern Medical, spreading joy and taking photos with children who may not otherwise get the chance to experience that holiday magic.
Every toy given through this drive tells a story — sometimes one that changes lives. Jeff recalls a moment that captured the true meaning of this effort:
“One Christmas Eve, a woman stopped one of our elves in tears. Her husband was in the ICU, and she hadn’t been able to buy gifts for her children. When she learned the toys were for hospitalized kids, she asked if she could take just a few for her own. We told her to take as many as she needed. She cried, I cried, everyone cried — not because we were sad, but because we realized this wasn’t just about toys. We were giving love.”
For children in the hospital, play is powerful. Toys provide emotional comfort, reduce anxiety, and help kids process their experiences. They also encourage movement after treatment, ease boredom, and foster friendships among patients.
Each donation — whether a toy, book, or cash contribution — helps create moments of joy, comfort, and connection for children who need it most.
With Kern Medical expanding its pediatric services — including the opening of a new Pediatric Emergency Care Center — the need is greater than ever. After the loss of several beloved Outlawz members, the club is calling on the community to continue their legacy of giving.
Here’s how you can help:
Together, we can make sure no child at Kern Medical goes without comfort, joy, and a reason to smile this Christmas.
🎄Event Details
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Saturday, December 6, 2025
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5800 Wible Road, Bakersfield, CA 93313
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Contact:
alexandra.campos@kernmedical.com
Join the Outlawz Car Club, Hot Rod Santa, and Kern Medical Foundation as we keep this 18-year tradition alive — because sometimes, a toy is more than just a toy. It’s love, hope, and healing wrapped in one.