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Local organization brings holiday cheer to families in need

Posted at 8:27 PM, Dec 17, 2017
and last updated 2017-12-17 22:58:06-05

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. --  An organization called More Self-Less hosted its annual 'I Dream Beautiful' Christmas event on Sunday evening for families going through a rough time.

The group said it's mission is to create "Temporary amnesia from the troubles of the world."   On Sunday evening, they achieved that, bringing smiles to some very deserving children.

Nyla, 6, talked to FOX 17 about what she asked Santa Claus for this year.

“I’m asking him for a hover board and a fidget spinner if I be good in school.”

They're things any child wants for Christmas.

“Presents and you get to be with your family," said Vannya, 10.

For families in need, time with Santa and a few gifts means a sense of normalcy for kids who need it most.

“I think this is a wonderful opportunity to provide that to them, a lot of these children haven’t Christmases that you and I have," said Kelly Schroeder, a board of More Self-Less. "So, even if for just one Christmas we can give that to them and bless them, that’s our goal.”

'I Dream Beautiful' gave families a night to celebrate with family photos, dinner and presents from Santa. Volunteers with the organization say they hope their act of kindness pays forward throughout the year.

“Don’t just wait for December to do something nice for somebody", said Santa. "If you see somebody looking down or you see your coworker and you know he’s having a rough moment, sometimes all it takes is that hand on the back, say ‘You know what? I’m here for you buddy.’"

This was the 7th year for the celebration. Click here if you want more information about the organization.