The circle of giving a hallmark for Item Santa

LYNN – Thirty years ago, Julia remembers writing a letter to Item Santa asking for help.She and her husband had five children and there was no way they could manage money for rent, food, clothes and heat each month. The cost of buying presents added to their financial burden, and they sought assistance from Item Santa.This year, Julia and her husband George have given thanks to the Item Santa by donating $100 for a family seeking for help this holiday season.”Everyone we met at the Salvation Army was so uplifting and helpful,” Julia recalls. “I will never forget it.”Their donation will definitely help some needy children this Christmas.Marie is seeking help for her kids and their situation is very similar to Julia’s 30 years ago.”After I pay for all my bills and food for my family, there is no money left for Christmas,” Marie writes.Marie humbly asks for help to buy her children some winter clothes, and maybe a toy.”I hope you can help my family,” she wrote.Gertrude has been raising her three grandchildren for two years and is also seeking assistance.”I could use any help you could give us,” Gertrude wrote. “The children could use some clothes if possible.”Julia just hopes her donation will put smiles on a few children’s faces this Christmas, and she’s glad to do it.”I’m happy to be able to help out this year. God bless you all,” Julia wrote.”P.S. Payback is awesome,” she added.The Salvation Army/Item Santa is in its 41st year of helping those in need.To make a donation to Item Santa, clip the coupon in today’s Item or download one and mail it, along with your check, to The Item Salvation Army Santa, P.O. Box 951, Lynn, MA 01903.The Salvation Army will be distributing gifts to needy families Dec. 10-13.For more information, call the Salvation Army at 781-598-0673.