Analycea Miranda sits next to a pile of presents she helped collect for 37 needy children in Sonoma County. (photo provided by family)

At 15-years-old, Analycea Miranda of Santa Rosa decided she just wasn’t interested in asking for presents this year for Christmas. As a kid, Analycea wasn’t even all that into playing with toys. She has, however, received much joy watching her young cousins opening their gifts at Christmas. This was just one of the reasons she was inspired to give joy to others rather than receive it for herself.

This year, the Pivot Charter School student was moved to help those who might not be able to have much of a Christmas. She created a Facebook page aimed toward Sonoma County families in need, offering help to the first 14 families who responded. She enlisted the help of her mom, dad, and 18-year-old brother, as well as family friends and extended family. Together, they all set to work to make a few Christmas dreams come true. Her efforts even caught the eye of someone she didn’t know, and that person took on the gift needs of three of the kids.

“I have received messages from people claiming how they had tears in their eyes and are so grateful,” Analycea said via email regarding the help she was able to give to these families.

In all, the crew of Santa’s helpers were able to help 37 kids have a merrier Christmas. And this Sunday, the families will receive their gifts at a pizza party just for them.

Analycea mentioned how much she’s looking forward to seeing the smiles on each kid’s face, and knows that will be the greatest outcome in helping others who needed a little boost this holiday season.

“I hope I will be able to do this again,” she said. “It has been a very fun experience that I have had the honor to enjoy.”