A Christmas surprise for an entire family from a Secret Santa

A Secret Santa is back and this Christmas is bigger than ever!
The EastIdahoNews.com team is busy helping a local man gift more than $500,000 this holiday season. A lot more. Secret Santa is a real person who wants to remain anonymous and hopes to help as many individuals in our community as he can.
Michelle is a single mom doing her best to care for her children. Three of the four children were born with autism. Her oldest autistic son, Brandon, passed away a few years ago.
Michelle works at Excellence in Everyone - a business that helps handicapped children and adults. Her son, Ethan, only eats McDonald's chicken patties. She has to buy them buy by the case. He does not eat any other food. Ethan is nonverbal and loves to watch Disney movies on his Ipad.
Paige is autistic but can communicate. She loves to sing, is in school plays and is able to write letters. She mails notes to several friends in the community and uses lots of paper and postage stamps.
Michelle doesn't ask for anything. She takes care of others and that is what makes her happy. Michelle's mother, Mary, lives with them to help with the kids.
The family has several needs, including new furniture. Secret Santa wanted to wish them a Merry Christmas and asked the East Idaho News elves to visit with gifts for everyone in the family. Watch the video above to see the surprise!

[@vickimu]

Couldn't have picked a kinder man than Nate to help spread this Secret Santa's gifts

[@mariayoung8860]

No Kidding. He is so perfect for this job.

[@janineshaner1107]

He is amazing

[@pamsbirding]

I so agree!

[@erinmyers8603]

Nate is amazing!

[@mrjinks5641]

Autism can be very difficult to cope with at times she’s doing a great job.

[@LemireCassie]

True that!

[@generationxpvp]

My youngest daughter has autism, it can be difficult at times for her to communicate her needs to us but she brings joy and warmth to every room she enters. So blessed.

[@champagnesupernova777]

Yes!!

[@AcornSmokes420]

Yes I have it Spectrum side so I can turn it off and be normal or turn it on and be special lol Just it be hard not to have my own kids if I choose myself a woman

[@tobyrose6906]

I was a Carer for Young people with Autism. And Behaviour problems. I enjoyed my Work. Helping others who need help support and look forward for a better future .....Good luck To this lady and her. Autistic Children They need Patience.....God Bless 🙌🙏

[@BabsLongfellow]

I love how authentic and thoughtful these gifts are. Meeting people's needs where they are is a gift that Secret Santa and the team at East Idaho News has cornered the market in.

[@ambujaprathap]

Yes I it's true

[@muffs55mercury61]

That's for sure. Wants and needs are two different things. It's ok to want things as that's human nature but I would prefer to help people in need as Secret Santa does rather than buying kids video games, cell phones or other electronic gadgets that aren't necessary.

[@scobrnano6060]

I'm glad they included Dolly, the dog, with a gift. Well done!

[@hiteshadhikari]

Thats santa for you

[@lucychopsmc5909]

Secret Santa and his helpers are very thoughtful, and the presenter is always so respectful. I just discovered this channel and am binge-watching and crying a lot of happy tears.

[@visitperaiagreece]

The news here in Greece had a report about the Secret Santa in East Idaho. haha It showed Nate Eaton visiting people.

...........Secret Santa put East Idaho on the map.

[@c.s.7266]

♥️

[@perijetton9275]

🎄☃️❄️❤️

[@jjp5259]

LOVE Greece and its people!

[@bhataktiatma1080]

his name isn't Nathan, but nate eaton

[@cyl742]

When mom opened the door she looked like she had the weight of the world on her shoulders. By the end, she seemed a little overwhelmed and also happier. What a great choice for Santa to help.

[@lorenzovandekeere3242]

*notices a McDonalds giftcard* "Ain't nobody taking THAT from me!" And of he was back into the house 😂😂😂

[@mariawilloughby6565]

Nate is so kind and handles people with such respect and kindness !!!

[@joek1519]

I don't think you could pick a better Spokes person for these gives. What a super person!

[@ramishrambarran3998]

Yes. He does. Just the perfect custodian of the Secret Santa !

[@celestiafanforever]

Nice to see that Secret Santa didn't forget about the dog. Even pets are family.

[@celestiafanforever]

@Amber Hatfield that's what I grew up being told by my parents. My mom always told me that the pets we have or had, those who have since passed away, are part of our family.

[@celestiafanforever]

@President Trump Forever2060 I always called my cat my son, that or I called him my prince of cuteness.

[@cdh79]

It shows that they're truly good people and are thinking about the whole family :)

[@celestiafanforever]

@@cdh79 yup.

[@capt.obvious4487]

That is just a Dog Gone nice thing to do.

[@GeminieCricket]

We have a 28 year old autistic son.....only those with these precious children understand her daily struggle ! God Bless !

[@giovannaarioli313]

The secret Santa makes me cry. When I’m feeling down because of my health I watch these shows and see there’s people worse then me

[@loveforeignaccents]

Geez, hope you're doing okay, pretty lady! Merry Christmas and hope it's a good one for you!

[@memewithinameme35]

@Amber Hatfield I really feel you, I'm grown and im early 20's taking care of my mom who just had a kidney transplant, has multiple arthritis problems on the verge of a wheelchair, and an autoimmune disease. i hope for this family and you as well Amber, seriously!

[@cherbrowne1637]

Hi Giovanna I hope 2021 brings you good health and happiness. From the UK 🙋

[@ambujaprathap]

Yes mam.. We are the best comparing to others. God bless you abundantly with health and happiness.

[@ambujaprathap]

@Amber Hatfield God will touch you and heal you with his mighty power. God bless you abundantly with health and happiness.

[@loveforeignaccents]

Secret Santa is getting very creative... and thoughtful, as usual... even remembering the sweet pup too! God bless this family, and Merry Christmas to everybody!!!!

[@jennyc5132]

Merry Christmas and a happy new year to secret santa🎅🤭

[@MrPickledede]

I worked with people with special needs for over 20 years till I moved overseas....it was absolutely the most rewarding thing I ever did

[@beckyrose962]

This really touched my heart this morning. So many people in this world do not understand the difficulties families face with childrenon the autistic spectrum and other similar conditions. When those little kids grow into teens and then adults, they still need their parents support daily. That is an incredibly difficult job for the parents. How wonderful that grandma is able to be involved so much in helping with the daily routine to support Mam. Family love is everything in these situations. I think the fact that secret santa thought of everyone touched the Mam's heart really deeply. It certainly did mine xx

[@paulgannon3261]

Perfectly expressed you totally nailed it

[@mackcappel844]

Such a beautiful comment🎄

[@jennyc5132]

Why is it that there often doesnt appear to be a dad around...well done to the women and siblings around the world who help raise these special needs kids...secret santa these ladies need a day or weekend of pampering for themselves and someone capable to do some inhouse respite care while the ladies are away....

[@jennyc5132]

@@geordiejones2 thanks Chris. From wh aat Ove read, heard and experienced over the years its often the carer who passes away before the one cared for. Its a tough life with 1 special needs child but that lady had 3?, 4? and recently lost one? She needs a hug and a spa day!!

[@thomaskybe5993]

Beautiful, lovely and very sweet comment...a very true comment, because autism is so different from person to peerson. That woman and granny needs a day off, spa and a good meal, so that they can enjoy some time off and just smile...all the love to that family from Thomas, Denmark....to you too of course and a Merry Christmas

[@loriwishman1866]

She's a good doggy, no jumping. Just excited and friendly. ❤️

[@lisalamorey3453]

Paige is SO sweet!

[@AE-wm4qx]

Ethan's reaction made me giggle because I know he couldn't verbalize his feelings, but I could see him thinking "heck YEAH, BRO!" when he saw the McD's "M" and then he was so satisfied, he left WITH the cards - what a genuine a pure response.

[@saoirsealbanach4896]

you could tell he was SO excited! I had to laugh because (from an autistic perspective) these are the two autistic responses to really great gifts: effusive rambling excitement and RUN

[@GETINLOSER]

He's like yup I'm getting my shoes and getting in the van RN xD

[@Pravduh]

This mom is doing the *very best* she can, our true heroes' of the world. Sending much love to the entire family, including the doggo!

[@kimhorne-fortner3938]

My nephew is autistic and to be so specific for their needs is wonderful. They may not always be able to express it but it is so impactful to their lives.

[@linneaellis2704]

Mr Eaten, if that sweet young girl wants to write to me, I will gladly write her back.

[@ladybug111]

I would love to send letters to Paige. Merry Christmas Paige.

[@thebasketcasemomma]

My thoughts too! I would love to write her!

[@Run4Ever77]

I imagine if you sent it to Nate at the station that he could arrange for it to be delivered. What a wonderful idea!!

[@Nepthu]

The McDonald's chicken patty part cracked me up. My parents never would have entertained a quirk like that, autism or not. I would have starved.

[@dragonlover2085]

Sounds like Michelle has a difficult life. Going on every day this way deserves our respect.

[@lucindaarmour7422]

This lady is juggling so many different needs and seemingly doing it with such good grace. There are health needs in this family - these gifts were so lovely and thoughtful but she really really needs community support structures in place to assist. Her son needs a great deal of care. If something were to happen to her (even a simple injury) I fear for what would happen. This lovely gift has at least bought her some breathing space financially.

[@Twangtown7]

Man, this is great. God bless Secret Santa. And God bless you too, Nate. There couldn't be a better person to do this than you.

[@tewiaktaniera4820]

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed. Merry Christmas ❤️🙏

[@thegougy]

nice fairy tale you got there - but it is just a fairy tale...

[@JenaTuckerAquariums]

@@thegougy that's your opinion. Have a good day 😊

[@lovingmayberry2000]

Paige's verbal skills are awesome! Great family!

[@a.p2234]

I have a son with autism and he acted just as this woman son. That was so cute to watch. God bless everyone watching 😊

[@JSandwich13]

It's 7am Christmas morning in Scotland. These videos make my day so much brighter. Merry Christmas to all who celebrate.

[@connieeasley4291]

Merry Christmas from a Wallace family decendant. Hoping some day I can visit your amazing country!

[@jenniferhenrich2852]

Merry Christmas Scotland family. Peace love and joy to you this morning.❤Jennifer from toronto Canada

[@c3posascha]

Merry Christmas from Ingolstadt (Bavaria, Germany) to all how watch the Videos from secret Santa

[@frandistabile4723]

Merry Christmas. Have a Blessed holiday!

[@jocelynhaeberle1401]

My new favorite! I had Michelle's father as a teacher in Jr. High. He died in a boating accident just before the end of the school year. I was devastated! He was a Wonderful man! Helped me bring my grades up and instilled some needed confidence in me. As luck would have it I met and became friends with the rest of the family later on. What sweet, sweet people. The children are so special, in every sense of the word. And no one is more loving or patient than Michelle! 🥰 Completely deserving of this gift! Bless you Secret Santa!😘

[@joeewalker97]

Wow, what an amazing story. Thank you Nate, Secret Santa, and East Idaho News. You are making a real change in the world

[@jnsjns87]

This was my worst Christmas, abandoned, but this video reconciles me with the human being. Secret "Super" Santa you are pure heart

[@ariesbarb418]

The coolest thing about this is video aside from happy I am for the family is that porch! She said her dad built that house. Did you guys see those boards, how solid that porch looked. Wow. What a gift it must be to live in a house knowing every single board in that house was put there by your dad. Love the sons reaction, he's outta there, and the daughter seems so friendly. Happy for them all!

[@thomasroy8211]

As a parent of an adult child with Autism, thank you so much to this Secret Santa for all he does for the people there. Children and Adults with Autism are amazing. Bless this family.

[@c.s.7266]

I wish everyone peace and love all over the world. We are the same regardless of geography, race, or religion. ♥️ There comes a time when you have to take a good look at yourself in the mirror. If we don't find a common ground amongst each other we are doomed. Stop anticipating the afterlife and live in the present. I know we can do it

[@grannymoz98]

I wish you Love and Peace as well,

[@marymcdonald3778]

@Barry Barry I wish you peace of mind and prayerful hope for the holidays and coming year.

[@nicklager1666]

Having family members with autism i know the daily ups and downs you get. Its so rewarding regardless what their daily mood is. It was nice seeing this family and i wish them a good 2021 like everyone here in the commentsection.

[@chadpaul7518]

The moms tee shirt says it all. They are incredible keeping a smile while in difficult times.

[@winniethepoohandeeyore2]

I'm so glad the pets are being included. They are members of our families.

[@daily8353]

Who else come here every few months? I love watching old videos of Secret Santa, it always made my day❤

[@twerkinthecityhuh6340]

Nate is a vital connection between the ppl & secret santa

[@bantonphoenix]

Okay, I thought Secret Santa couldn’t get any cooler and more awesome and then he goes and gives the dog of the family a toy and his ówn giftcard! That just makes me so happy. 😁❤️

[@cdh79]

yes, that showed me that they truly care about the whole family!

[@CH-nl3oo]

First thing I do is watch these in the morning during the holidays.

[@rhymeandreasoning]

Happy Holidays to the family. And to Secret Santa. And Nate and his team. And East Idaho News. And the nice citizens.

[@TheBadcop]

I don't want these to end!

[@terrid1030]

What will I watch every morning? I treasure these!

[@terrid1030]

Good news network is almost as awesome..I love me some secret santa!

[@robertboyd6777]

Well done secret Santa. A deserving family

[@jftaylor1000]

That is awesome. Secret Santa is a legend. Never forgotten and always remembered.

[@turleyite]

I would love to get a letter from this young lady! Good job SS!

[@ktps1527]

My favorite time of the night.

[@janellemusson7500]

Mine too! These videos have brought my family so much joy this holiday season! Merry Christmas from Bend Oregon

[@ktps1527]

@@janellemusson7500 Merry Christmas

[@Shucksofficial]

She seems like such a fun and funny mom, I’m so glad they were given a gift and a bit of weight off their shoulders

[@paulkorpella9426]

Secret Santa and Nate are great! i still remember Christmas around 1970 my brothers and my Grandparents came over with a St Bernard puppy Bentley for an unforgettable gift! i still miss you Bentley ❤️

[@loveforeignaccents]

RIP, Bentley, along with my sweet Nina girl, a beautiful chocolate Lab!

[@elihugs1497]

The Mom is a total SWEETHEART, Bless YOU Michelle!!!

[@LucasVanderBartlett]

Merry Christmas everyone, I hope your day is magical.

[@cherbrowne1637]

Hi Lucas. Thank you from the UK and wishing you the same 🙋

[@LC-wk7np]

Thank you Lucas. Merry Christmas to you.

[@JDS741988]

Merry Christmas!!

[@goldierule1350]

I love how sweet the daughter was wanting to send Secret Santa a letter bcuz he brought them presents! God bless the whole family. The Mom is so nice & modest, I don't think she realizes how amazing & strong she really is. Her son was so shy & she so sweetly says, "He not a man of many words", I love that he opened that McDonald's card & booked back inside. 👍😊🎁✌🎄🎅💝🙏🌟 This video made me so happy, what a beautiful & deserving family! 💕💞

[@KS-se9jb]

Anyone giving this a thumbs down is a grinch. Lovely ☺️

[@texasgina]

I adore Paige’s heart. My granddaughter has Aspergers and she is high functioning but doesn’t show a lot of emotion either.

[@SerchhipChelsea]

More power to her. The real wonder woman. ❤️

[@loriwishman1866]

"My house is scary." "Your house isn't scary." This exchange makes me laugh every time. Such a sweet family. I wish the best for them. One of my favorites. Edited to add, my house is scary too. 😘

[@KarenJWhyte]

What a beautiful mother. I’m sure her children are constantly ignored and judged by societal standards, she is full of love it radiates through her. Hopefully she feels extra special this season! Wonderful children and Santa.

[@wonkamywilly2456]

She had me ROLLING 😂 So humble

[@HeavyProfessor]

Have to spend Christmas alone this year due to work, but these videos are a good way to enjoy it. Reminds me to be ever so grateful for what I have and to continue giving.

[@chobbsy84]

Have a great day at work from the UK my friend. Happy xmas

[@GETINLOSER]

Merry Christmas! Today's the day! Best day ever! I make homemade handmade soaps and I gave a few away last night. Felt so amazing.

[@gwendolynsinclair]

Merry Christmas! Wishing you a beautiful day ahead 🎄❄️☃️❤️

[@walterwilson1884]

Secret Santa is not only a blessing , he is a thinker also . Something for the whole family .

[@monnanugent8168]

We need more Nate Eaton's in the world. He seems to be able to connect with everyone. Such a wonderful man.

[@kathycruse6693]

Nate, Jordan, and the whole team deserve recognition for the kindness and caring for all the recipients. Gosh I love these programs.

[@omaopa6923]

I hope secret Santa knows how much joy he gives to me and all that watch, wishing a safe and happy Christmas for all

[@TheSharron]

I loved this family...especially the mother.She has so much on her plate and she has a kind sweet soul.Her laugh was contagious.God bless them all.

[@trevorburgess2477]

Merry Christmas to all, and special blessings to Secret Santa.

[@eijaj5997]

"My house is scary" so sweet.

[@joanmilano5302]

Wonderful gifts! ~~~ Merry Christmas to their whole family, to you Nate, and to Secret Santa!! ~~~

[@jmielke4341]

She’s got a great personality, hilarious!

[@kristinebailey6554]

Most gifts given out like this get a little extravagant. What I love about this secret Santa event, is whoever metes out the cash, makes wise and compassionate decisions, making it go as far as possible with a little room for a little luxury too. So well planned.

[@nannybluebelle8643]

Secret Santa thinks of Everyone even the doggie.... very thoughtful. Thankyou Secret Santa 🎅 🎄 and Happy Christmas love from me in the UK 🇬🇧 xx

[@7zzZKnightZzz7]

I love this family - they represent nothing but Love! I wish them the best. God bless.

[@hummingbird2254]

I really like Paige. She's very polite. I hope that lots of people are responding to her cards and letters.

[@knifedbyakangaroo]

merry Christmas to everyone , i hope your day is as magical as you are to the world and that your 2021 is much better and all your wishes come true. never give up , keep going , and help someone whenever you can , you guys are amazing

[@cherbrowne1637]

Thank you from the UK and wishing the same for you. 🙋

[@stephenlangton3814]

Im nearly 60 and i always end up in tears watching these

[@multifandomperson9341]

I love Paige in handling the gifts she has. Like a logical method to deal with the gift.

[@karijaneify]

These gifts were such a relief for the mom; thank you Secret Santa!

[@JosePerez-pj1qb]

This reminds me that when im feeling like crap, there is always someone worse thank you secret Santa

[@nevermore4971]

What a sweet family! I love that Paige loves to write letters. I do too!

[@morganjanelle4282]

nancy miller If you'd like to send Paige a card or letter, click on: www.eastidahonews.com/contact-us/ and fill it out with your name, email address and that you would like to send Paige a card or a letter, and ask them to forward it to her. That's what I did (a few minutes ago) and have seen several other people comment that they'd like to do the same. ✔🙂🌼🕊️💗

[@BLAB-it5un]

I love this one! Unique, personalized gifts for each person (and animal!) geared to who they are, what they enjoy and what they need. Well done to all involved!

[@absolu_raf6220]

When i saw her, i know how hard to have a child with autism, its a blessed to them, if i have an ability to help them i will help, but i cant all i can do is to pray for them they safety and overcome any struggle in life... She is a blessed mother.

[@okienightstalker3145]

If everyone had a heart like secret Santa just think how much better this world would be

[@brettmanus7904]

Now, THAT, was cool. I love how everyone was included; even the 'puppy'; all 170 pounds of it...

[@felixG83]

That girl writing letters to everyone is so sweet

[@bettycogswell9851]

God bless this whole family...Bless you Secret Santa...

[@Scratchingforcash]

Secret Santa is amazing. Thank you for all you do!

[@David-sk9vv]

If you read this Nate... you're a TOP BLOKE!!! Your personality, your sincerity is something we can all learn from! Bless You

[@AnneewakeeChampions]

4:32 The moment Ethan sees the golden arches 🍟. lol, That boy high tailed it.

[@laverite1050]

Thank you Secret Santa your heart is of gold taking care of people with special needs.. They have the cutest dog.

[@kylemartin2594]

You know ..we need more east Idaho news..from la to NYC. That's what would really make America great again.

[@thekpmckay]

Why do I keep watching these? Because I love to see people who I can empathize with receiving a life changing gift from someone who has nothing to gain from it except peace. And love. Thank you again secret Santa... the ripples of your actions spread out far beyond the pebbles that you throw.

[@SKYBLUIIS1967]

What a sweet family !!! The daughter was so very thankful and soooo adorable. Makes my heart melt to see families so thankful for their gifts.

[@Jane-West]

Thank you Nate and Secret Santa! Sometimes we get so wrapped up in our own issues, we forget there are people who truly have them. You always know Secret Santa! Merry Christmas everyone!

[@ashleymarie6585]

Her reaction 😂😂 “oh… my house is scary” proceeds to close the door Lmao ME

[@judibrommer7569]

I'm so glad God made you Secret Santa!!! God is so very, very Good!!!

[@norahmcphee4928]

Having been the twin sister of an Austic brother, the mother of a 21 year old autistic son who was non verbal for numerous years, thankfully better now with nearly all his life with speech and language therapy and now the granny of a non verbal 5 year old, i can only have praise for Michelle in how she and her mum copes, because it's hard. I was lucky enough to have my parents help because even his father didn't want to know or accept his sons diagnosis and behaviour. They can give you a lot of love that you don't get from other children, but there are days you just want to sit down and cry. Michelle, i wish you all the very best flower, you have an uphill battle on your hands to get the help that your children need. Sending you all hugs and enjoy your gifts from the Secret Santa. from a fellow battler for our austistic children, Norah, Glenochil Village, Central Scotland

[@johneBGood]

I love how the gifts were so personal for each of them. Your videos have become a real life line for me and as much as you are blessing these wonderful people you are blessing me even more. Thank you guys! I get to feel part of something so incredible and it does my heart good! Merry Christmas Secret Santa, Nate and crew.

[@Nothing-zw3yd]

I know so many people who are cynical, and are always going on about bad things everywhere, how the US sucks, etc. They purposely ignore good things like this that happen all the time because they'd rather stay miserable. And that puppers is an absolute unit! Beautifu!

[@tc1uscg65]

Nate, as much as the secret Santa's deserve pats on the back for what they do, you sir, deserve a pat on the pack for your hard work and devotion to spreading the cheer. Merry Christmas and keep dong what you do. There is no 2nd to compare mate.

[@gaurprashant0001]

Totally loved the range of gifts. They are blessed. God bless them and God bless us all. Love from India.