Christmas Season With The Whittakers 

Betty is the glue that holds these people together. She gave up her own life to help her siblings. God bless her.

I’m from West Virginia. I used to live 20 minutes from these folks. I have to say, the way Mark treats these human beings is amazing . I’m glad you came into their lives. You are making great memories for them and with them. You can tell a relationship has formed and I believe they love you Mark. Thank you for all the people you help and may you be blessed to continue to do this work for a very long time.

I live in Beckley and have attended church with Lorraine and Timmy on occasion. I will testify that having Mark enter their lives has transformed them into an even closer bonded family unit. People around here used to overlook them and a few mocked them in the small community of Odd. But, their world has been expanded, made so much better as there has been so much more compassion and understanding from everybody who takes the time to see the pure organic love of these special people. Mark, you have done a great humanitarian thing caring about the Whittakers. I know I am not the only one who thanks you for all you do for them. God bless you and Loren. My heart is bursting with gratitude and love for all the effort you put into enriching their lives. One thing to add: Lorraine and Timmy certainly love the Lord. Lorraine will speak in church as she ‘testifies’. Nobody truly understands her speech but God certainly does! I love the Whittakers!! ❤

The best part is when ray gets so excited over bowling the ball he doesnt see the pins falling down 😂

Betty is more intent on buying for the family than for herself. She is so caring and kind hearted.

The random guy in Walmart thanking you for what you do was awesome.

Such a shame there's been no professional intervention to help Ray in particular to communicate - you can see the intelligence in his eyes bless him. Heartwarming to watch Mark enrich their lives.

When Mark asked Timmy what he wanted for Christmas and he just shrugged! So cute lol I think Timmy is just happy to be out and about shopping!

When Ray was hugging that teddy bear and smiling so big I teared up. Thank you Mark for all that you do.

Every time I see a new video, I realize just how important that Betty is to this family. A true matriarch.

I don't have any family so I haven't experienced a xmas for a long time. It is so strange watching this. It is my xmas. Actually sitting home alone laughing and enjoying a xmas experience. Thank you.

I love the way Mark treats these people with the respect and love they deserve....👍🏻

If SWU posts were nothing but Mark hanging out with the Whittakers, I'd still be a life-long subscriber. Its so darn wholesome!

You can really tell they are completely comfortable with you, Mark. Thank you for showing them kindness.

Several yrs ago I watched a cable show that remodeled peoples homes while sending homeowners off for 3 days. They had 75(? ) tradesmen come in and work in shifts round the clock. The transformation was phenomenal!! Yes, the Whittaker’s need that show!

The progression of this family is remarkable. I watched an interview with two brothers who said they were so scared of people before you came into their lives they would throw rocks at people and cars. To see them happy and accepted makes me know that good people still exist. Please continue to be a part of their lives for a long time to come. Not just for us viewers but for them. They truly love you and your girlfriend.

Prior to Mark, I don't think anyone gave a rip about this family. To bring them this joy is so heartwarming. This is truly inspiring. Thank you Mark

At one point walking through Walmart, Betty looked like the mother duck making her way through the aisles followed by her baby ducks, staying close, parodying her every move. There were some sore backs and a well bruised bowling lane by the end of that day but the joy just explodes through the screen. And love. Ray's hug for Mark when home was just priceless. This is what Christmas is all about. In times where the world feels like its going to implode, these moments are even more valuable. Bless you all.

The fact that she blew through $50k+ (more likely $100k) and has no regrets and treats Mark like that when Tyler shows up with $200 of groceries it really shows the type of person she is. Poor Timmy & Ray

I love seeing their smiles. When Timmy picked up that sweater, which wasn’t his, he was so gentle and happy ❤

Timmy honestly seems like such a kind and gentle soul.

Timmy needed to go down the stationary/school supplies aisle! Load him up with pens, pencils, markers, notebooks, coloring books etc. He would have a field day. 💙

I love this so much. They are so humble. When asked what they want for Christmas they go to clothes and necessities. I'm glad Mark found them.

This family makes me so happy.. not a single one of them ever loses patience with each other Ray just melts my heart

I loved it when Lorraine was clapping. Her hands when she was bowling and smiling. It made my heart feel so good. And ray has a lovely Teddy bear of the hug. Now, that is amazing, I've never seen race. A happy and poor old Betty. She's the mother and the sister and the father to them. All they're nurse everything. That woman has a very special place In my heart

My 10 year old daughter walked up to me the other day while I was watching one of these videos and asked what I was watching. I told her that these were people less fortunate than us, and the man is making these videos to help raise money so they can buy a new house. She recently lost a tooth and said she wants to give her tooth fairy money to the Whitakers😊. These people bring joy to people's lives and they will probably never even realize it.

Ray hugging the teddy bear melted my heart❤

So much good & bad here. I loved seeing Timmy, Ray & Lorraine enjoying themselves bowling & the joy they had putting up the tree. Larry & Kenny are opportunists if you ask me. Now they are hanging out at Walmart/bowling with the others?!? Then once home BJ & some guy come by. I’m sure Larry let her know what was going on so that she can get $ from Mark. It’s sad bc Mark’s intentions are good, but you can see the others are out for self. Then, no one even thanks Mark. WTH? Larry kicking the dog pissed me off.

If any of my children turned out to have the same level of compassion and the empathetic understanding of Mark Laita, I'd feel my work as a father was done well. If still alive, his parents must extremely proud of him. What a wonderfully kind soul he is🙏

The highlight of this video was seeing Larraine cheering at the bowling alley. I've watched most of these videos and I remember a time when I didn't think Larraine could express emotion let alone communicate verbally. I've seen her do both now, and it's beautiful to see her coming out of her shell. God bless the Whittakers - and you! Everyone who has extended kindness restores my faith in people.

That man subtly telling you thank you for what you do brought tears to my eyes.

I am surprised with all the dogs they have they didn't think to get some treats for the doggos for xmas lol

It was so wholesome to see Ray throwing the bowling balls, screaming in excitement and turning away shortly before they would actually hit the pins :)!

God bless Betty. I'm not sure how they'd all survive without her. She's a strong and selfless woman!

I can’t explain why any episode w the whitikers are my comfort shows but they are. I wish I was there w you guys. I’d love to be apart of something so special like this 💕 Mark you are one of a kind, thank you for sharing this journey w us!

This is what I’ll miss. Watching them enjoy something as simple as bowling. They had such a great time. For a little while they laughed, clapped & screamed with so much excitement I had tears in my eyes. They deserve the love and laughter. I hate that we won’t see them anymore going for haircuts, shopping or just hanging around the house. I truly love them to bits. They didn’t ask to be this way. You showed them nothing but respect & for once they were able to have really nice things & were cared for. I wish them all the best. 🙏🏻♥️😢💔

I'd love to see a segment "birthday for Betty" take her out for a spa/shopping day, bring her home to a cake and a clear spot with a new bed ♥

I don’t think they have ever had such a wonderful Christmas. You have given more to this family this Christmas, than they have had in a lifetime. God bless you Mark. I love watching this family. ❤

Everything that has went sideways in their lives, they still have such a huge heart and loving smile! Brings a grown man to tears knowing how much joy Mark and the team bring to them! You, sir, are amazing and such a huge blessing to these sweet people! For this I want to say thank you!!!

Wow, what a difference! They all look so much happier, energized, and more healthy than the first Walmart shopping spree. It made me sad to see the poor black dog get kicked, though.

When Ray hugged Mark Back at their house after shopping was so genuine. They really appreciate everything ❤

The transformation this family has undergone since your first videos is so amazingly stark. The last couple minutes of this one had my heart swelling big time. Lorraine talking and asking for help to put the ornament up. Ray shouting about the Christmas tree and just being GIDDY and besides himself when Santa's mentioned. You're a blessing in their lives. Thanks for introducing us to them in the gentle way you have over the years. Each and every member of that family LOVES you two!

Mark even if certain members of the family do things that hurt your feelings or you dont get told thank you enough just please remember its all about Ray, Timmy and Loraine. I promise you they absolutely adore you and your friend man. What you're doing for this family gives me hope thay maybe the world isnt so bad all the time. I have a medium/big size family and nobody is close anymore. Everybody fights, argues and doesnt even speak most of the time. The Whittakers take care of each other like family is supposed to. Thank you Mark for truly caring about the Whittakers and changing their life for the better. Thats what its all about man fr. Ive always felt better helping and giving to others.

The whole situation is a shame. I feel Mark really grew to care about this family. Ray will miss him the most if this all comes to an end!😢😢

Ray hugging that teddy bear…and being so excited about his monster truck was priceless!

Just when I think these videos couldn’t get anymore heartwarming, I see Ray’s reaction to bowling. And people handing Mark money to go towards the Whitakers’ Christmas. Mark, this is the best vid yet. Thank you.

God bless you for looking after these folks. I’m originally from WV and sadly there are so many families in Appalachia that face the same hurdles. The poverty in our own country is immense, yet we send trillions overseas to countries who hate America and its people.

I really would love to have a CHAT with the vet who said these dogs are well cared for... I wonder if they'd feel the same after watching Larry kick the dog for being a dog. 🤨

I love how ray is just happy to throw the ball. Doesn’t even bother looking at the pins

I know you do so much for a lot of people Mark. You let people tell their story and actually listen to them. That you help them financially, give some of them a warm safe place to sleep. That you give your time, resources and friendship. I don’t know if you know the impact you’re making or if you ever feel that you’re unsure of what you’re doing but if you ever do I hope watch back the moment where you tell Ray he could have that bear. His smile and happiness by your kind simple act was really a beautiful moment. I hope you see that and how much he cherished what you did for him. I also want to say thank you for putting a light to what most of society would rather keep in the dark. Your work is important and powerful.

Mark what you're doing with the whitakers is amazing I know that you do genuinely care for them how can you not they have come so far since you came into their lives! Ray is unbelievable he really has come so far .❤❤ I get so excited to see our Whittaker s smile and laugh. Thank you and God bless you and Whittakers. Mark you're heart is beyond big, I know about the shenanigans some you tubers lied and that hiccup on family preying on them for $$$$. You are genuine and they tug in all are heart strings 💖

Ray loves his shoes, teddy bear and that monster truck and so excited Santa Claude is coming!

Hearing Timmy say good job ma at the end melted my heart. Even with their disabilities and I’m sure Betty doing most of his raising he knows who his mama is.

It brought tears to my eyes at the end when Timmy said (and for the first time ever I understood exactly what he said) “Aunt Betty,….. we need a star”…..Timmy has come so far since you have been visiting….it just proves that everyone needs physical contact with others outside their home. I hope and pray they have a Merry Christmas! Thank you Mark for all you do for them!

It’s so nice to see how Betty has never taken a moment in her life for herself , she feeds them , watches over them every minute , the rest of us should take a look at what she’s sacrificed for her family , she’s an angel

My family is from the mountain area of North Carolina. My mother, a very benevolent woman, from time to time encountered people who reminded me of the Whitakers .She always tried to help them with the things that they needed and encouraged me to show kindness and generosity when I was able to. She also taught me that these people did not need to be harassed or made fun of, or their living conditions criticized. She would encourage me to do what I could for them and then move on to the next family that we encountered. The main thing she encouraged was to be compassionate and kind. When the time come that we had done all we could do, to go in peace❤

Kept hoping Timmy would grab like 20 coloring books and 10 boxes of the best markers. He deserves them.

Lorianne clapping and smiling warms my heart and soul.

I love seeing the confidence that Lorraine has found to be around people. I bet they sat looking at the tree for hours or days. Beautiful ❤❤

I have always admired Mark as a artist , and have enjoyed his natural journalistic ability to deliver the souls journey. Mark is truly a Angel 😇 on earth. The love and compassion he shows towards the Whititakers warms my heart and proves angels do walk among us. Peace , Love , Light 🙏🙏🙏😇😇😇💙💙💙

This family is lacking a lot. They lack greed, stress, worry, pride (in the very best way) They honestly put each other above themselves each and every one of them do. And that's amazing & beautiful to see. I'm really happy that you found this family, and that your videos help support them. Not that they would care if they had less as long as they have each other that's all that matter. Man if we could just bottle that up we can make everyone in the world a millionaire. God bless this family & Mark thank you for doing what you do. I can watch these people all day long and smile all the way through 🙂 Merry Christmas 🎄 to them all and again God bless 🙏

I will have a permanent smile on my face all day long after watching this. Thank you Mark and Lauren for being so good to the Whitaker’s.

These people’s life has changed so much since they met you. You’re a great blessing to them.

The first Walmart trip was a joy to watch because they got the things they needed & it was nice to see Mark start changing their lives for the better. This video was a whole other story. Betty has become greedy. Kenneth was always greedy seeing as how he had nothing to do with them until he found out they were receiving money. Betty all of a sudden could walk fast and dart up and down aisles throwing absolute junk in the cart(s)! Then we have Kenneth throwing in his stuff in & letting Mark know he wants HIS candy in a separate bag. Its trivial but its also just examples. Instead of buying life size teddy bears, how about buy bath towels, a toilet scrubber and some damn bleach?! Priorities I suppose. They say money changes people, this shows it even changed the Whitakers. The ones that know whats going on for the most part. Betty also used to be friendly, shes become a grouch, snappin at everyone (poor Lorraine) & even Mark, who, btw, has the patience of a saint! And now with the new bs going on, Betty lying about money, Kenneth & Larry bugging Mark for money, buying truck after truck bc neither one can drive. Its just all changed my opinion and Im sure plenty of others. All that money and they couldnt have bought bathroom flooring?? Or perhaps a bed or even a cot for Betty?? Yet Kenneth got the new trailer/shed beside this dump. One of them needs to clean the shit off that toilet. If not one of them, then Larrys daughter! Id bet he gives her plenty of dough. Gotta have money to buy that ice cream somehow. I said what I said.

If the world had half of the joy that Ray and Timmy has all the time, the world would be a better place! It’s easy for people to judge them but actually, people could learn so much from their attitudes.

Ray is such a sweet soul. Thank you for showing them kindness. We have watched how this family has responded to consistency and kindness and over time they trust you. It’s beautiful.

Awww the beautiful family had fun at the bowling center that's just gorgeous 😍❤Ray loves his truck and shoes 😊❤oh Lorraine you so cute🥰💝Timmy is so helpful 🙂🧡Betty you are the rock of the family you sweetheart💪 🏵💗Larry and sorry I forgot the other brother's name are very caring too 🤩😍🤍🤎the bond this family has is strong 💪❤sending our love and blessings to you all from the maori people of new Zealand ⭐🌙🙏💛

Lorraine is so sweet, ray is a ledge , Timmy is such a character , betty is just so strong and caring. Ashamed to say when I first came across this family they repulsed me but oh my days , I have grown to love them. Watching them evolve has been so heart warming. Thank u mark for everything you do for this family.

It literally warms my heart to see the Whittakers so happy and enjoying the holiday season. Mark and Lauren thank you so much for what you do and making their Christmas so wonderful! When Ray pointed out his bed and made the snoring sound I nearly fell off my bed laughing, wasn’t expecting him to do that! 🤣 God bless the Whittakers, Mark & Lauren ❤

The way Mark cares for the Whittakers!! ❤

Mark is an amazing soul ! Not only is he a strong advocate for this loving family he pours into each one of them with his time and energy! His presence in their lives has enriched and encouraged each member of this family!! They are having fun and exciting experiences they never would have had the opportunity had it not been for Mark !! Thank you Mark for all your efforts of kindness thus making this world a much better place... you are a joy to behold❤❤❤❤❤❤

1:14:19 - Timmy was warned about the dog. 1:14:22 - Then Timmy completely exaggerates the dog "bite." It didn't even look like the dog bit him. 1:14:26 - Then the poor thing gets kicked by Loser Larry.

Goodness, I’ve never seen Loraine get so excited about doing anything. This was great. Bless you for getting them out and helping them.

They look great! When I compare this to the first video you ever did with the Whitakers, they are wearing clean clothes, all have hair cuts, they are much more socially adjusted & willing to participate in activities. You have brought so much to this family Mark 🫶🏻

It's so sad that 2 somewhat normal ppl would continue to keep having children knowing they were causing them to horribly disabled and knowing you won't be around till they all are old and it would be own themselves to try to take care of each other when only one or 2 of all them siblings are even barely above the mentally disabled and left to take care of a house full of the others that are very mentally disabled. Its sickening that 2 ppl who knew what they were doing would make the choices to keep having kids knowing they are causing them to be so mentally and physically disabled...

It wasn't easy helping these ppl....Mark did it......they wouldn't have got what they got if it wasn't for Mark....I got the impression they really didn't have the sense to appreciate the gifts an stream of money‼️💯⚖️so ppl don't need to say anything bad about Mark, no one else stepped up.....thats for sure.....thanks Mark❤

I love how Ray doesn’t give a damn about winning, he just likes throwing the bowling ball! He’s having a blast! Good for him!

After watching that Walmart trip, TWELVE HOURS LATER, I was ready for a drink. I’m not even a drinker. Mark, you are, without a doubt, an angel here on earth. Thank you for ALL you do! When the Whittakers began to set up their new Christmas tree, it was such a sweet reminder of why we’re even here. Bless you and yours this holiday season! Sending you prayers and lots of love!🙏🏻❤️🎄

I cant tell you how much I was cheering them on. They loved it. ❤

Great job Mark and Lauren. You have literally made this families life so much better. You’ve done an amazing job at also raising awareness and compassion for not just the Whittakers, but many other families and individuals. Showing how they are loved.

I am enthralled by the generosity of Mark and his willingness to make a huge difference in this family lives.

The level of love, empathy and respect you have shown this family is immeasurable. They genuinely love you and we all know you love them. The matriarch Ms. Betty, looking out for her family as always. Merry Christmas, Whittaker family.

Their bowling was sooo funny to watch! Ray and Timmy especially tickled me 😂😂😁😁Bless their hearts they all tried so hard😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

Thanks for all you do to help this family have a Merry Christmas!

It is so crazy to think about when Marc first started visiting the Whitaker's and how quiet and shy they were. To now where Marc can understand what Ray and Timmy are saying and they all are so much more outgoing! Whether he does this for the money or not I don't care because he has done sooooo much for them in return! Merry Christmas to Marc and the Whitaker family ❤

Mark- The sheer amount of PURE LOVE & patience you have given these sweet people, over many years, is absolutely AMAZING to witness!! Thank you for showing the RU-vid community what it means to be truly selfless & genuinely care for others. A VERY Merry 2023 Christmas to you, your wife, and to the entire Whittaker Family!!!🙏🏼🥰❤️ 🎅🏼🎄🎁🎁🎁

Ray and timmy are pure of heart theres no badness in these guys

Such a blessing for them! I love seeing them having fun and enjoying the day with you! Thank you for being so kind to them!❤

Awe Mark, Ray offered you his coat before he put it on . If he's cold you might be ,too. That warmed my heart so much . Merry Christmas Witakers❤️❤️❤️

Seeing them grow personally is the best gift, Mark, you truly helped them get the support and love they needed. To see them grow to trust and gain human connections is remarkable. They shut themself off because the world was cruel, but now. they have so much love from so many people. Truly amazing and heart warming. EDIT: So amazing that you take them to Walmart to get presents and they chose clothing, and Kenneth was worried about the price, such great people truly. They dont need much to keep happy and are satisfied and appreciative.

I love watching these videos! The kindness and pure love is there and it makes me have hope. Too many people would rather make fun or look the other way. Thank you for being a kind soul. We need more of this in this day n age.

I love this family. Ray and Timmy bring me so much joy. I’m always smiling watching them. 🫶🏼

Pure innocence. Especially ray and lorraine. She is an angel.You just wanna protect them and make sure their warm at night. God love the Whittakers.

The smile on Lorraine's face as everyone's shopping gives me so much joy. How special! 🎄🕯️🤗

This is undoubtedly the kindness act I've seen all year. It's very kind of you to treat them and they have such a good time. Thank you so much for your kindness and your care for these folks. I'm sure they are so grateful to you. God bless and keep you.

the happiest day ever, watching this, seeing how involved and happy they are, thank you!

it breaks my heart that before i knew this family , i was scared of them just based off of the first photos. but man did i misjudge, i feel terrible. now im in love with them all. this is beautiful what you are doing for them. thank you !!

I love seeing Lorraine so active! She looks so much more healthier now than she did in earlier videos. God Bless The Whittakers and God Bless Mark!

Thank you for sharing your heart and kindness to this family. God bless you.

I know I am a bit late, but Mark, “I love you and your kind heart.”