Need for car puts brakes on Christmas

In the midst of the holiday season, parents take a look at their finances to see how much they can set aside for gifts to bring delight to their children on Christmas morning.But for one mother who wrote into Item Santa, money that was going to be spent on Christmas gifts went toward a new car because the one she had was no longer safe for her and two daughters, ages 6 and 12. In addition, the mother said a family member died this year with whom her daughters were close. “My two girls have been through a lot this year, and I would really just love to have something under the tree for them this year,” the mother wrote.The mother said her 12-year-old daughter, who was diagnosed with autism this year, loves anything to do with plants, animals and the solar system. She is very bright and aspires to be a teacher. Her 6-year-old is a “little social butterfly” who loves school, nature and My Little Pony.All of us get dealt unfortunate circumstances at times, and you have the power to brighten this family’s Christmas by donating to Item Santa.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 collect at Santa Island 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.