For One Military Family, a $20K Holiday Miracle

'Tis the season ... to report on really great stories like this one. Santa came early for one military family, who found themselves the recipient's of Home Depot's first "Give the Gift of Good" campaign—and walked away with a $20,000 gift certificate for much-needed repairs to their home. The months-long web-based contest, which relied on DIY and military bloggers, set out to find the military family with the greatest need. The eventual choice: the Dilley family. Sgt. Kevin Dilley is currently stationed in Greenland; he's done three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Back home in Utah: His wife, Tyrena, and their five kids, two of whom have spina bifida and are in wheelchairs.

Fox News reports that the money will go to repairing their 1950s home's roof, fixing flooring and insulation, and making improvements like adding ramps. Military families are getting much love this season, reports USA Today: President Obama and the first lady today wished the country "Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays," then asked Americans to do all they can to help those in uniform and their families, suggesting they visit JoiningForces.gov to see how they can pitch in. Republicans offered a similar message in the GOP's weekly address, delivered by Indiana Rep. Mike Pence. Among his comments, "This night let us not forget those who still stand in harm's way far from home so we can enjoy this season in peace and freedom." (More military families stories.)