First Lady Melania Trump attended a Virginia Toys for Tots event on Monday, delivering a special message for children about Santa, his reindeer and the holiday season.

“This wonderful adventure is filled with Christmas sparkle and lots of love,” Trump said, speaking at Marine Corps Base Quantico on Monday, Dec. 8.

Last year, Marines and volunteers for the nonprofit Toys for Tots distributed over 30 million toys to nearly 13 million impoverished children, the organization said on its website. Nearly 15 million children nationwide live in poverty.

Trump said she personally flew to the event with Santa for the day’s visit, although his reindeer couldn’t attend.

“Santa’s reindeer … all of them, they are resting in the North Pole,” she said. “They need to save all of their energy for their great flight around the world on Christmas Eve.”

In her message to little ones around the country, Trump said Toys for Tots is “one of the most beloved traditions of the holiday season.” She also took the time to grab a little girl in the crowd by the hand, kneel down and chat with her a bit, smiling as the child spoke.

But before greeting more children, she took time to thank volunteers who make Toys for Tots possible.

“For more than 75 years, Marines and volunteers across America collect and deliver new toys to children who need a little extra joy during Christmas,” Trump said. “You help bring the delight of Christmas morning to millions of children.”

This story has been updated to add information.

Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: First Lady Melania Trump thanks families, donors at Toys for Tots event

Reporting by Saleen Martin, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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