WBSM kicked off its Mini Miracle program this week. We were honored to work with the United Way of Greater New Bedford to make sure that the DeSousa family received the help they need this holiday season.

We aired the interview with Zane's grandmother, Diane Setera, and his mom, Alissa DeSousa, on Thursday morning. Within minutes, our phones were ringing off the hook. Donations via text came pouring in. Pledges were made and fulfilled thanks to the assistance of a couple of wonderful people from United Way.

We even had a surprise visit from the DeSousas themselves! We were so happy to have them in the studio to hear from our charitable listeners and local businesses who donated.

With the help of our sponsors and the generosity of our amazing audience, we were able to raise over $10,000 for the DeSousa family. That money will help access therapy sessions for Zane, as well as overnight care so Mom can get a full night's rest.

In addition to covering medical costs, items were donated to the DeSousa family to help make their Christmas a little brighter. Mom and Dad have not been able to spend much time together since they switch shifts at the hospital to care for Zane. Local restaurants donated gift cards for Alissa and Mike to enjoy a date night every once in a while. Thank you BrewFish Bar and Eatery and Airport Grille!

Hair in Motion Full Service Spa donated massages and a year's worth of facials to Alissa so she can take some time for herself to relax.

Zane's four-year-old brother Gavin loves the Barrett's Alehouse game room. They donated a gift card to him so he can eat and play until his heart's content. They also gifted passes for the Cape Codder Indoor Water Park.

Needless to say, Alissa and Mike were moved beyond words.

Mike, Alissa, and Zane surprised us on-air Thursday morning!
Mike, Alissa, and Zane surprised us on-air Thursday morning!
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There is still time to make your donation this holiday season!

Text to Donate: Text WISHES to 313131. You will be sent a United Way e-link that allows you to make a donation via credit card to this family when you select MINI MIRACLE from the drop-down menu.

By Check: Make checks payable to the United Way of Greater New Bedford and in the memo line, write MINI MIRACLE. Checks can be dropped off at WBSM studios during normal business hours or mailed to United Way of Greater New Bedford, 128 Union Street, Suite 105, New Bedford, MA 02740.

Donate by Credit Card: You can make a secure donation to the United Way via credit card HERE. Select MINI MIRACLE from the "Please Select a Family" drop-down menu.

Donations of Gift Cards can be dropped off at WBSM Thursday, December 6 and Friday, Dec. 7. Please leave a note saying the card is for MINI MIRACLE along with your name.

The United Way of Greater New Bedford is committed to helping families in the local community year-round. This week, we were able to help the DeSousa family. In the future, please consider making donations to this organization so that more families can receive necessary assistance all year long.

WBSM's Mini Miracle with the United Way of Greater New Bedford is an extension of the Annual Holiday Wish program. Families have been pre-selected. Support for this program is made possible by New Bedford Credit Union (NBCU), Sam Karam and Sons, Lech Auto Body, First Citizens Federal Credit Union, Tremblay's Bus Company, and Pateakos & Poulin, PC.

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