Many Expected To Work On Christmas Day
FAIRFAX DISTRICT (CBSLA.com) — Most people are able to take time off during the holidays, but others have to tough it out at work while everyone else is celebrating.
"It's hard. It's hard and something that they're learning to get used to," said Eric Garcia, a firefighter, who for years has had to work on Christmas Day.
Garcia, who is married, works at the busiest fire station in the country: Skid Row.
He says year after year he's had to explain why he has to work the holiday to his four kids.
"They know I'm coming to help. And to help people. And they're good with that," he said.
But it's not just firefighters who slave away during a day many of us have off.
In fact, police officers, hospitals workers and many in the restaurant business also have to work.
Canter's Deli on Fairfax Avenue is open every Christmas and, because it's so busy, every employee is asked to work.
"It'll just be a constant stream of happy people who are just looking to celebrate and get some food," said Colton Coates, a server.
"You have to keep that smile all the time especially during the holiday. You have to keep your smile no matter what," said Eric Gonzales, another employee of Canter's.