updated 7:52 p.m. ET Dec. 24, 2008

MIAMI - When Dwyane Wade heard the plight of a South Florida woman whose nephew accidentally burned down her home — and ruined all the family’s possessions — the Miami Heat star knew he had to do something.

So he helped the family move into a new home, just in time for Christmas.

Wade presented Dawn Smith with the ultimate Christmas gift on Wednesday — the keys to a her new house, along with some furnishings, clothing and gifts to make sure her family has a joyous holiday, something that didn’t seem likely just a few weeks ago.

His Wade’s World foundation will make some payments on the home, while Smith and her family get back on their feet.

“That’s what I try to teach my kids,” said Wade, whose foundation has hosted several charity events this holiday season, mostly for needy children. “It’s not about what you’re going to receive — it’s what you can give to others from what you’ve received.”

Smith couldn’t hold back happy sobs when she saw the home for the first time.

“A big-time relief,” Smith said, clearly overcome by emotion. “Thank you so much. Thank you so much. Oh, God, thank you so much.”

The NBA’s leading scorer this season had a simple message: “Hopefully, you’ll like it.”

Wade’s other holiday events this year included a party for 350 children on Monday, and hosting 100 kids at Tuesday night’s Heat game against the Golden State Warriors. He also donated $10,000 to each of three children’s organizations, but said he was particularly touched by being able to assist the Smith family.

“We can help this family have a new beginning,” Wade said.

Also on NBCSports.com   Video: Legends say Federer greatest of his generation Curran: McNair — tough, talented, great  |    Images Ventre: Artest puts everything in jeopardy for Lakers Blyleven: Days of .400 hitter are dead and gone   NFL video: How to build the ultimate offense

MORE FROM NBA

NBA Section Front

Rasheed to join Celtics Kidd reportedly will re-sign with Mavericks Getting Randolph another Memphis mistake Pistons talking to Avery Johnson for coach job Ventre: Artest puts everything in jeopardy for Lakers Vote: Will Artest be a distraction to Lakers? Hill: Herculean Shaq ready to deliver for Cavs SN Radio: Granger picks up the pace Rumors: Miami Heat interested in Iverson NBA players who became free agents on July 1 NBA Section Front   Add NBA headlines to your news reader: