BALTIMORE, Md. — For some, having beautifully wrapped presents under the tree is a yearly tradition but for others, it's a rare and appreciated treat. 100 special kids got some of their Christmas wishes granted Friday.
Thanks to local drug treatment center, By Grace Counseling Services, this Christmas is filled with wrapped toys for everyone.
“Every kid on Christmas Day, they want to wake up to at least something under the tree so for them to not have anything it would not only be sad for them but it would make me very sad, said Tekyla Brown.
100 kids got four toys each. Their parents were asked to tell Santa the following things: What I want, What I need, What I wear and What I read.
“I’m very blessed. I have five boys so it's a little rough to be able to provide for all of them, said Brown.
It may seem like a small gesture, but for ladies like Jessica Vernon, who's trying to stay clean, it meant actually having presents under a tree for her son.
“I’m just very grateful this is probably the only gifts that my children will receive due to my own selfish behavior.”
Pamela Dukes founded By Grace Counseling Services. For here this labor of love was a way to unite and empower a community often forgotten.
“There are a lot of clients down here that don't have anybody to support them. They don't have any gifts to look forward to for Christmas.”
Some kids got bikes others like Zion Tatum was happy with a basketball and toy cars and other were just happy to be in the company of a warm smile and meal.
“At this point, my child's father and I just focus on paying bills and keeping food on the table so Christmas wasn't really a priority this year but fortunately they have toys and they're happy,” said Vernon.
And that's the best gift of all.
