Wayland Pro Poker Player Gives Homeless Kids, Moms, Gifts, Food

WAYLAND, MA—Bernard Lee, a pro poker player from Wayland, continued his partnership with FamilyAid Boston and hosted a Dec. 16 event for 40 homeless families to receive customized gifts for both adults and 58 participating children, according to an announcement.

Held at the Perkins Community Center in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston, the event was sponsored by Lee’s own Full House Charity Program. As New England’s top professional poker player and an active poker media personality, Lee has for the past seven years donated all proceeds of The Full House Charity Program to organizations across the New England region that focus on children in need.

“This is the most challenging time of the year for families experiencing homelessness," said Annie Gordon, FamilyAid Boston’s director of development and external affairs, in a statement. “Parents worry that they won't be able to fulfill their children's holiday wishes and pay the bills at the same time, which puts a strain on the whole family during an already stressful time. Bernard and his family are not only providing parents and children with items that they want and need -- they are also giving them joy and peace of mind."

Lee and his kids met with the parents and children in the shelter program and following some pizza and games, the kids got gifts from their wish lists. Lee honored specific requests from each child and family and provided a range of gifts. They included winter clothing, hats and gloves, books, National Geographic Explorer magazines, toys, games, sports balls, art supplies, books, backpacks, diapers, and stuffed animals, continues the release. In addition, Lee also provided every mother with a winter coat and a personalized duffle bag.

“It’s a privilege to link up with a century-old organization like FamilyAid, which has long stood for helping Boston residents and kids,” Lee said in a statement. “My program has become a family tradition, especially for my own two children, who are a huge reason for the program’s success. Our goal has always been to bring joy to New England families during the holiday season. More than anything, I love seeing the children smile when they receive the specific gifts they wished for. My family and I always look forward to this event.”

Lee launched his Full House Charity Program in February of 2011, and has since provided more than $75,000 worth of goods and fundraising to children-focused organizations in New England. The program has helped more than 225 families and more than 400 children during its seven-year history.

Additionally, Lee’s charity program has provided meals to the homeless during the holiday season in Cambridge, Mass., Las Vegas, Nevada, and most recently in Houston, Texas. This year, Lee decided to help victims of Hurricane Harvey and Irma. Teaming up with the Once Step Closer Foundation, Lee and his daughter flew down to Houston in mid-November to provide four families affected heavily by the devastating hurricane with specific gifts that they requested, said the release. Additionally, Lee sent supplies and gift cards to families in parts of Florida and Puerto Rico that were ravaged by Hurricane Irma.

Photos submitted