Local Family Surprised with Tree for Christmas

In the spirit of giving, the KEYT morning show team along with Senior Reporter John Palminteri set out to make one family’s Christmas a little brighter this year.

Joey Buttitta, Shirin Rajaee, Meredith Garofalo, and John Palminteri started the search for the perfect tree at Toddy’s Christmas Tree Lot at the Santa Barbara Bowl.

The tree was generously donated to help light up some faces this Christmas.

The team said it was a tough decision, and although they got a bit side tracked all in holiday fun, they finally after a good thorough check of the lot found the one.

The excitement continued back at the NewsChannel 3 studio where Joey, Shirin, Meredith and a few other co-workers decorated the tree with just a few strands of garland, some lights and a star.

We reached out to People’s Self Help Housing who assisted us in finding the perfect family in need this holiday. Then, the tree was packed, a few extra Christmas goodies added, and the team was on the way.

Isla Vista residents Nazario and Estella Nava and their three kids knew we were coming, but the tree was a total surprise.

As 10 year old Richard, 6-year old Marley, and their little brother Vincent admired the sparking lights, their mom said it’s certainly a special Christmas.

If you’d like to help this family or others in the community, visit People’s Self Help Housing at http://pshhc.org/.