Christmas is supposed to be a time of love and laughter for many. But for some, help is necessary in order to make the holiday a special one.
This single mother of two is an example of someone who’s looking for a bit of that Christmas giving spirit from a stranger or two. She is looking after her kids each day and has not found any work that can accommodate her schedule.
“I am not currently working and do not receive child support,” she wrote to Item Santa. “I just want to give my children a good Christmas and see the smiles on their faces.”
She’s not asking for much — just something to put smiles on her children’s faces. But she needs your help.
Now in its 49th 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 A7 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 2016, along with a brief message from each donor, if desired.
This year, we have two other ways to donate besides clipping the coupon and writing a check. To contribute online, go to www.itemsanta.com, where you can make a donation via credit card. We have also included a text-to-give function that will make donating to the fund easier. There are four steps: 1 — text 41444; 2 — type in ITEMSANTA, space, your amount, space, and your name; Example: ITEMSANTA 250 John Smith; 3 — hit send. 4 — Click on donation link to enter payment information and complete your pledge. The donation will not appear on your mobile phone bill. You must pledge directly from the link on your mobile device using a credit card.
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.
