FLINT -- Hundreds of families in Genesee County are asking for help in buying Christmas gifts for their kids this year.
One such family is that of Jonaries Holden, the 6-year-old boy who was tragically shot and killed this week.
Catholic Charities is trying to help with their Angel Tree Program.
NBC25 talked with a mother who's signed up looking for help, and another mom who's making sure several kids will wake up with a smile Christmas morning.
"Would you like some bread and butter?" said Jenna Bearup, a North End Soup Kitchen volunteer.
The Bearup family has been volunteering at the North End Soup Kitchen in Flint for five years.
“I want them to understand that other families aren't as fortunate as ours, and a chance to give back to them," said Colleen Bearup, a North End Soup Kitchen volunteer.
This Christmas the Bearups will be buying gifts for a family with nine children in Genesee County.
They’re taking part in Catholic Charities' Angel Tree Program.
"I hope this makes their Christmas a bit brighter, alleviate some of the burden they have financially," said Bearup.
This year a record number 2,200 kids have signed up for the program. Their names are put on a tag and hung on this tree in hopes that a business, church, or family will adopt them.
"People can take one child or a family of five, and it doesn't matter what we do as long as we can help one child," said John Manse, the Director of Community Services with Catholic Charities.
This pile of worksheets represents 600 kids in Genesee County who are still waiting to be adopted; all they're looking for is some brand new clothes or toys this Christmas.
Shandra Boyland is unemployed and hoping someone will sponsor her five children.
"It is very important, I don't want them waking up thinking that Santa hate'em," said Shandra Boyland who is waiting for her kids to be adopted in the Angel Tree Program.
6-year-old Jonaries Holden and his twin brother Quinaries are also on the adoption list, but Jonaries was tragically shot and killed this week over his father's $60 debt.
Every one of these tags has a heartbreaking story, and you could be that angel for a child in need this Christmas.
If you'd like to help, just stop by the North End Soup Kitchen on Stewart Avenue and pick up an Angel Tree tag.
Gifts can be delivered by December 15.
You can also donate towels and socks as gifts for adults who will be eating Christmas dinner at the soup kitchen.
