Poker Pro Bernard Lee Grants Christmas Wishes For Boston's Homeless

Christmas is known as the season of giving and Bernard Lee exemplifies charitable contributing at its finest by extending a hand to the homeless in the Boston area, providing gifts to 40 families - adults and children alike.

For the seventh consecutive year, Lee has made Christmas merry for those in need near his hometown via the Full House Charity Program that the poker pro established in 2011. Lee goes out of his way to get presents that the families have wished for, answering their requests like a modern day Santa Claus.

The gifts come in all shapes and sizes and range from clothing and books to school supplies, toys, and games. Whatever gifts are on the recipients' "Wish List," Lee manages to fulfill with the help of his two kids.

"My program has become a family tradition," Lee said. "More than anything, I love seeing the children smile when they receive the specific gifts they wished for. My family and I always look forward to this event.”

Stellar Career

Lee has cashed for more than $2.3 million on the live tournament circuit throughout his poker career. That includes his best cash of 13th place in the 2005 WSOP Main Event for $400K. At this year's 48th annual poker festival, he just missed winning a gold bracelet while finishing runner-up in $1,500 No Limit 2-7 Lowball Draw for $55,086.

In addition to playing poker, Lee writes for ESPN and also hosts his own radio program on Rounders Radio. "The Bernard Lee Poker Show" has been running for 10 years, accumulating a following of listeners and poker fans.

Pizza Party

A collaboration with FamilyAid Boston was utilized to pass out the personalized Christmas gifts to the homeless. The event took place on Dec. 16 at Perkins Community Center in Boston and included pizza and games for all in attendance.

“This is the most challenging time of the year for families experiencing homelessness,” stated FamilyAid Boston director Annie Gordon. "Bernard and his family are not only providing parents and children with items that they want and need — they are also giving them joy and peace of mind.”

The Full House Charity Program - Lee's way of giving back for his success at the poker tables and behind the mic - has reached out to help others in need as well. People devastated by the recent calamities of floods and hurricanes in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico were beneficiaries of Lee's charitable efforts this year.

While Christmas is the season of giving, Lee has expanded his operation to give year-round. Thumbs up from PokerTube to the 47-year-old poker pro and media personality for his continued generosity.