Little is left for Christmas

The mother has long-term hopes for her two young sons. They are simple desires, what almost any parent would want for a child.”Our hopes and dreams are to have a strong structured home and strong family values,” she wrote. “I hope these boys get to accomplish great things in life, always show compassion for less fortunate people and passion for the things they love and enjoy.”But, she also has more immediate dreams for them.Her older son is just 2 years old. He loves football and other sports – anything with a ball – and loves riding his scooter. He is smart and curious. Her younger son is 9 months. The mother is on her way to making some of her aspirations come true. She and her children will get the feeling of a family Christmas for the first time ever. After living in a shelter for the past two years, they have finally moved into an apartment of their own.But with living on their own, out of a shelter, come additional expenses. Leaving little left over for Christmas.”We strive for a simple life,” she wrote. “Our faith that Christmas will be special this year are with the good Lord. Thank you for your help and support in this time of need.”Their Christmas can be special, but it’s up to us.Now in its 48th year, the Item Santa fund endeavors to make Christmas a little brighter for those among us who are less fortunate. If you want to make a direct donation to Item Santa, clip the coupon on Page A3 in The Item and mail it, along with your check, to The Item Salvation Army Santa, P.O. Box 5, Lynn, MA 01903. You can also use the coupon attached to the itemlive.com version of this story as well.All donations are listed in Item print editions through the month of December and into 2015, along with a brief message from each donor, if desired.Those interested in signing up to collecting for Item Santa, or any business willing to sell stockings should contact David Solimine Sr. or Joel Solimine at 781-595-1492.NOTE: The application period for aid from Item Santa has closed and The Item does not process applicants. All questions about the program and distribution of gifts should be directed to Salvation Army at 781-598-0673.