Mahoning County Photographer Chelsea Marrie said she loves to give back every year, but knew this year was crucial. She turned to social media, asking the Mahoning Valley to nominate families who need a Christmas photo session.

"I had an overwhelming response," Marrie said, "So I paired up with Danielle and Brittney, and we decided to offer an entire day of mini sessions with families."

She said the post was flooded with comments about families who could use a lot of help after facing the coronavirus pandemic. 

Two other photography companies, L & N images and Elle Jane Photography joined in, giving away roughly $2,500 of photo sessions, but it didn't end there. 

"The 2020 year is just horrible, so I know how it feels for people to struggle, and I just wanted to help," Brittney Marales of L & N Images said.

With help from the community, they provided each family with grocery store gift cards and also obtained the kids' wish lists, providing them with Christmas gifts.

"I was completely blown away with the amount of people who as soon as I asked, were willing to jump on and help," Marrie said. 

Marrie said what propelled her to do this was the pandemic and remembering she's been there, too. 

"Growing up, I know that my parents struggled from time to time," she said. "I had the means and the ability to put together a nice little event, so I wanted to use that as a way to just give back."

Marrie says she plans to do this again next year with even more time to plan. She also gave thanks to the owner of 7P Tree farm in Hubbard, who gave their time and space to the families for their photo sessions.