Volunteer Santas Help Sandy Victims on Staten Island

Volunteers are not just clearing out debris from Sandy but bringing much needed smiles this holiday season

After waking up to the sound of demolition work, Emily Mazzuoccola looked out her window and couldn't believe her eyes. In her backyard were four strangers wearing Christmas costumes clearing out debris.

It was a welcome sight in what's been a difficult year for Mazzuoccola.  Her husband passed away in June and Sandy hit in October.

"It's just amazing to see that," Mazzuoccola said.

In the true holiday spirit, several different volunteer groups have come together to make a difference on Staten Island.

"At the end of the day everybody helps each other out," said volunteer Farid Kader.

Working alongside volunteers from Boots on the Ground and Occupy Sandy, Kader and the Yellow Team are not just clearing out debris from Sandy but bringing much needed smiles this holiday season.

"It makes you feel like you're not alone," Mazzuoccola said.

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