Trail of Lights help nonprofits

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Tens of thousands of people have been walking the "Trail of Lights", a great opportunity for businesses to make a buck.

One food vendor said he hopes to make a $15,000 profit during the seven day event.

For others working the holiday event, the money earned is not going into their pockets but to help others.

"We're basically out here cooking and just trying to raise money to keep the bills paid, " said Blake Patterson.

Patterson is a recovery addict who has lived his life on the streets in the past.

Now, Patterson lives at the "Ministries of Challenge" off 12th street in East Austin.

The program helps drug and alcohol addicts, in hopes of getting them on the right track again in their life.

"I've been addicted to drugs and alcohol since I was 16 and I'm 26 now, " said Patterson.

Blake said he is back on track and volunteered to work the "Trail of Lights", so he could give back to others.

With thousands buying up the food, donations were adding up for the ministry.

"I have been really blown away on how giving how nice people are out here, " Patterson said.