SNOHOMISH, Wash. -- A beloved angel has come to the aid of hundreds of homeless children who nearly had to skip Christmas this year.

For countless holiday seasons the homeless kids have warmed the heart of youth minister Bruce Karr.

"For the first time in their lives they came to a place that accepted them just the way they were," he said.

Every year Karr holds a holiday bash for the kids at his farm appropriately named the Farm Ministries. But this year, he considered calling off his annual holiday party for the first time and for good reason.

"Nobody knew if I'd still be alive," he said.

A tumor had eaten away at Karr's spine. Chemo wiped out his energy and bank account. Sick and worn by cancer, Karr gave up on the annual celebration, the street kids and his passion.

That is until he heard about Brenden Foster's dying wish to help the homeless.

"I'll never forget that how I thought I was tough compassionate and he made me look so wimpy," he said.

So the Christmas party is back on, but with very little money and time left.

"We've got the stockings covered, dinner covered. I don't think we have enough presents," said Vicki Karr of Farm Ministries.

But the party will go on however it can. Come Sunday hundreds of homeless kids bussed in from three counties will gather for a party.They'll be greeted by hundreds of people in Santa hats, applauding their entry.

"This whole place will be full of children," said Vicki.

The Karrs are hoping for a miracle on 92nd Street.

And things are already looking up. Test results Bruce received on Monday showed his tumor is shrinking.

They're now hoping the party, in turn, will grow before Sunday. To help buy toys for the Farm Ministry, call 425-238-0200.