The third annual Grant Recipient Dinner & Family Day, hosted Sunday by the Emergency Children’s Help Organization (E.C.H.O), saw more than 220 children and families celebrate the holiday season in Nicotra’s Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn.

As E.C.H.O. continues its mission to provide financial assistance to children and families experiencing medical crises, hundreds gathered to mix, mingle and while the day away at the Bloomfield venue.

Sebastian Angelico, E.C.H.O.’s founder and chairman, noted the event serves as time for families to interact with one and gives board members, children and families an opportunity to get to know one another.

The lively day brimmed with dancing, musical entertainment thanks to Partners in Sound, and dazzling gift baskets and prizes — all awarded to children, parents and families.

But the highlight of the afternoon was undoubtedly Santa. Children eagerly awaited his arrival and received surprise gifts along the way.