During the holiday season, Ralph’s Place in downtown Cape Coral is packed on Tuesdays. And it’s not just because it’s a beloved community hotspot.

People are there to play bingo. And it’s not just any bingo night.

Participants are there to support the restaurant’s charity, Ralph’s Christmas Kids.

Tuesday bingo night and Super Bowl festivities help raise money for gifts for Cape Coral children in need.

Owner and chef Bob Burns previously served as the executive chef for the group of restaurants on Fort Myers Beach that included Junkanoo Beach and Fresh Catch Bistro.

Ralph’s Place was voted best in the Cape for its prime rib and soups and there is no better combination than great food and a good cause.

It all culminates in the Ralph’s Place Wrapping Party on Monday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m. at 1305 Cape Coral Parkway, E.

Owners Bob and Nicole Burns have continued a heartwarming tradition started by the previous owners of getting holiday presents for Cape Coral schoolchildren.

They get lists from area kids asking for presents for the holidays. And it’s not uncommon for kids to ask for presents for their parents.

Common requests are video games, clothes and popular toys.

“Some kids say they just want pajamas for their moms,” said daytime bartender Cathy Tobias. “It’s pretty heartfelt when you see the list of what kids are asking for. Some want sheets for their bed. Some want blankets.”

Tobias, who has been working at Ralph’s Place for the past 12 years, said the Burnses took the tradition on about nine years ago when they bought the bar.

“The old owners thought it would be a good idea to get a list because they knew there were kids in need in the area,” she said. “It started with 30 kids, then 40 kids, and it grew.”

They helped about 130 kids last year and this year they’re expecting to help about 160.

Cape Coral school guidance counselors pick up the wrapped presents.

Nicole Burns goes to the store to get the items.

“She tries to get whatever she can,” Tobais said. “She cleans out shelves. She goes in and cleans out Five Below.”