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San Jose Family Known For Holiday Giving Unfazed After Burglars Break Into Home

SAN JOSE (KPIX 5) -- A San Jose family known for helping others in need became the victims of a burglary while they were away at a charity event. The family said they won't let the Grinch stop them from giving back.

Sylvia Martinez doesn't know the exact dollar value of all the jewelry burglars took, it was easily in the thousands. But she knows the sentimental value of her family heirlooms is priceless.

"They took jewelry from people who have passed on. You can replace computers, cameras, everything else. But you can't replace what your grandmother, your mom your dad has given you. It would be nice to pass those on to your grandkids but now they're gone," she said.

Burglars broke in to the Martinez home on Coconut Drive Saturday night, filling a king-size pillowcase with jewelry and cash.

What hurts Sylvia and her husband Tony even more is they were out doing good, when the bad guys broke in.

Sylvia and Tony are the founders of the Blvd BombS lowrider car club. Every December, club members and their families deliver food, blankets and clothing to the homeless shelter, and toys for needy children at Christmas in the Park.

"We're out there doing charity work and then we come home to this?" Sylvia Martinez said.

They spend the year raising money to buy the gifts, so much came in this year they couldn't fit it all in their cars. It will still get delivered. Getting ripped off, won't change their giving spirit.

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