SALEM, Ohio - Children from Columbiana and  rural Mahoning County are having their Christmas lists checked off at the Brightside Project Christmas event.

Hundreds of Children from ages three to 18 years old spent the day picking out presents and taking pictures with Santa Claus.

“Bright Christmas is the way to go,” said Arianna of Lisbon.

Within five hours, volunteers helped over 700 children pick out presents. Each child had a different item on their list.

The nonprofit has helped children's dreams come true for the holiday season for a decade. Christian of Lisbon said he’s been wanting a bike for a long time. 

When he saw the bike up for grabs, he was excited.

“It's a Christmas Miracle,” said Christian. “I've been wanting this bike for a long time. And, it was on my Christmas list, and I have to walk everywhere.”

In order to get the free Christmas presents, children lined up and filled bags with stocking stuffers. 

“They're going to be able to take pictures with Santa, meet Mrs. Claus. We have the Grinch here and our Brightside Mascot Sunny Sunshine, then the kids get to walk with our volunteers and pick out two gift items, a bag of stocking stuffers. And we’re also giving them a bag of food for the holiday break and then hygiene products today as well,” said Lisa Bittorio, Brightside Project co-director.

This “Bright Christmas” event is just one of the ways the Brightside Project supports low-income and underserved families.

“We’re just offering a positive experience for children in our community. Especially ones that have experienced trauma and adverse childhood experiences, and the holidays might be looking a little dark for them. We’re offering a moment of hope, joy and light for them today,” said Bittorio.

In fact, some of the children celebrating Christmas at the Brightside event get help from the nonprofit throughout the year.

“Yes and it is just perfect all year around. They give away food all year around and it just brightens up my day everyday I come in here,” said Skiler of Lisbon.

Bittirio says the need is continuing to grow in the valley.

“Because of the economy, our donations are low, our contributions are low because people are having to choose or are you going to give to charity or are you going to put food on your table for your kids,” said Bittorio.

The Brightside Project is accepting donations. To see how you can help, click here.