There’s a little Idaho Christmas tradition that everyone should know about. Despite the coronavirus raging on, the Idaho Secret Santa has returned, donating a car, $500,000, and more to those in need in their community!
More Than $500,000 In Presents
For six years, someone in East Idaho has spread true Christmas magic. The man, who wishes to remain anonymous, only goes by “Secret Santa” and donates more than $500,000 to those in need. Each year, he partners with East Idaho News’ news director, Nate Eaton, so everyone can see the fantastic gifts being given. While the donator wishes to remain anonymous, he hopes seeing those in need receiving gifts will inspire others to give. Meanwhile, anyone can go to the Secret Santa website and recommend those in need for donations.
“Secret Santa is a real person who wants to remain anonymous and wants to help as many people as he can,” the website posting reads. “We need your help finding the most deserving people in our communities who have a real need, are doing the best they can with what they have and wouldn’t typically ask for a handout.” There’s only one rule, and it’s simple: you can’t nominate yourself!
Now, Secret Santa has started giving gifts again, and Nate Eaton has seen some amazing reactions so far!
Amazing Reactions
When nominating an individual in need, it’s important to open up about their particular story. Secret Santa wants to help, and he’ll do anything for those who have also helped others. Meanwhile, Eaton makes sure that the nominees are “citizens who have done everything in their power to care for themselves but have had ill-fortune or special situations that have put them at a significant disadvantage.”
“In the past, Secret Santa has provided washers and dryers, furniture, special computers, dental care, diapers, gas cards and other items,” the website states. As you might expect, the reactions are incredibly sweet and often tear-inducing. One of the most iconic Secret Santa moments came when the anonymous gifter donated more than three thousand dollars to a father of seven who had recently lost his wife. Without a doubt, the Idaho Secret Santa must be one of the nicest people ever…
Lovely Motivation
Sure, Secret Santa is a fantastic person, but why is he giving out money and cars? Well, he shared a remarkable story with Eaton as soon as they started working together – a tale about his outstanding Christmas in a foreign country. When he was alone abroad, he didn’t think anyone would give him a Christmas present. Yet, he saw a box at the table as he came down to have breakfast. “It was not an expensive gift, and it was anonymous. It was the only Christmas gift he received that year, and it had a big impact on him,” Eaton said.
“He did not know who it was from, but he knew someone loved and cared about him and that lifted him up beyond what anyone could imagine.” After that, the man behind the Idaho Secret Santa realized that unexpected gifts are the best out there. While someone is going through a tough time, they can bring a lot of joy to the person. So, he decided to recreate it and be the one to give happiness. He’s not receiving donations, though. Instead, he wants Idaho locals to give anonymous presents to each other! What a great idea!
Sources: East Idaho News, MSN