Item Santa lends hand to people during difficult times

LYNN – The Item Santa hears from people in all sorts of difficult circumstances every year. There are single mothers who receive no child support, grandparents who have taken over the responsibility of raising their grandchildren despite being on a fixed income and hard working people whose paycheck just doesn’t stretch far enough to put presents under the tree.This year’s requests for help also contain letters from people who have had their homes foreclosed on, mothers who live in family shelters with their children and women who have decided to take control of their lives by either returning to high school after having dropped out to have a baby or go to college. Anyone who has gone to college knows it can be a full-time job in itself. Add a child or two to the mix, along with a job to pay the bills, and getting a degree becomes even more daunting.Unfortunately, many of these women are doing the juggling act with no support system in place. A couple of missed days of work or skipped classes due to a sick child, car problems or no childcare is enough to send the most motivated of people into a tailspin.Although struggling to get by is a way of life for an increasing number of people, it’s particularly painful during the holidays. Parents naturally want Christmas to be special for their children, but sometimes they need a little help. The Salvation Army Item Santa has been there to help make the day special for thousands of children for many years thanks to donations from our readers.Those who give have their own reasons. Some donate in memory of a loved one who has passed away. Others look at their lives, realize how fortunate they are and give as a way to say thanks. Some have been in a position to need help and are grateful The Item Santa was there to lend a hand.Donations to The Item Santa can be made by clipping the coupon in today’s Item and mailing it along with a check to Item Salvation Army Santa, P.O. Box 951, Lynn, Ma. 01903.For more information, contact the Salvation Army at 781-598-0673.