A Secret Santa surprises a stunned grandmother who walks everywhere and is raising two grandchildren
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The EastIdahoNews.com team is busy helping a local Secret Santa give $1 million to deserving people in eastern Idaho this holiday season.
Meri has spent countless hours volunteering and helping others in our community, especially if it involves the youth. Over the years, she has received many awards for her volunteerism in the community. She was named Idaho Falls Citizen of the Year, Eight Who Make a Difference, Grand Marshall of the 4th of July parade, JC Penney Golden Rule award and others.
She is now 70 years old, widowed and retired on a limited income. In her retirement, she is raising two of her grandchildren ages 7 and 13.
WATCH ALL THE SECRET SANTA SURPRISES HERE
About a month ago, the timing chain on her car went out, ruining the engine and making it unrepairable. It was her only mode of transportation. Now, she either walks or tries to borrow a car to go to the store and to get the youngest grandchild to and from school. She also has to get rides or walks to get the girls to their counseling appointments, school meetings, activities, and other appointments. Two weeks ago, the youngest was ill and at 11 p.m. she walked to the store to get her some 7Up to try and make her feel better.
Meri has always tried to be self-sufficient, even delivering food for DoorDash when she had a car and needed extra money to make ends meet.
Secret Santa asked if we could pay Mari a visit and surprise her with an early Christmas gift. Watch the video in the player above to see how it turned out!
