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Richard Piatt reportingFrom homes, to the hospital, to the homeless shelter, the spirit of giving extended all across Utah today.
For hundreds of people the best part of Christmas day is the dinner at Saint Vincent DePaul shelter. Even with Utah's booming economy, there are plenty of people who say it's a struggle to find a good job and they appreciate this meal.
Pamela Atkinson, Homeless Advocate: "They're very grateful. I've had so many of them come up and give me a hug or a handshake just to say thank you."
Saint Vincent DePaul is the only place in town offering a warm meal for individuals and families who wouldn't have Christmas otherwise.
Among those who feel strongly about chipping in is Utah's governor. Governor Huntsman's family has chipped in over the last eight years.
They say the opportunity to serve reflects the true meaning of Christmas. But when the top guy is in charge of desert, it pays to play the politics on the pleasant side.
Governor Huntsman: "I've had some of them come up and say, 'Hey I voted for you.' (laugh) I give them an extra piece of pie when I hear that."
There's another tradition that is also continuing this year: Christmas at Shriner's hospital. Santa arrived with presents for kids who are stuck in the hospital, just as he has for 30 years now.
It means a lot to the young ones--and their parents--who would rather be home for the holidays. They're enjoying a visit from Santa away from home.
Jordan Thompson: "He said, 'did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?'" And what did you say? "Yeah!"
Karen Thompson, Children in Hospital: "For them, they're very excited because they couldn't be home for Christmas. So they're very excited; they were really looking forward to it."
This year is tinged with sadness also. The man who started the Santa at Shriner's program, Benny Williams, passed away just last week. His family is hoping his idea will continue to thrive in the future.
Dina Blaes, Benny Williams Daughter: "He had a heart that was bigger than anyone's I've every known in my life. And I think he just knew that this is not where these kids wanted to be on Christmas, they wanted to be at home in their warm beds. And he wanted to bring joy to them."
Yet another example of someone who wanted to make Christmas about a lot more than getting gifts.
