Finding yourself unemployed is never easy, and it’s especially stressful during the holidays.
Job loss means shortages in budgets and happiness. It’s a time of uncertainty, fear, and guilt. Having a merry Christmas can be nothing short of impossible.
Item Santa heard from several families who are struggling to buy presents for their children as breadwinners seek work.
“After nearly 19 years, my husband lost his job and factory work is scarce since another nearby manufacturing company also closed its doors,” the letter said. “I’m asking for a little Christmas help this year for my 3-year-old daughter and 7-year-old son. They don’t need much. Just to wake up to see a few presents which, sadly, we can’t afford.”
While the state’s unemployment rate was 3.5 percent in October, the most recent data available, and has been below 4 percent for nearly three years, indicating a healthy economy, the statistic isn’t much solace to someone who is out of work.
“Holidays are always tough, but this year is quite challenging,” the letter said.
Across town, a single mother and part-time student at North Shore Community College, also lost her job. As a result, she and her 1- and 3-year-old daughters had to move back to her parents’ home.
“I get child support of $612 per month for the girls, but without working that’s barely enough to get by,” she wrote. “Anything will help and thank you.”
There was a similar sad tale from a 25-year-old mother who is living in a shelter in Lynn with her children. She lost her job, lost her car because she could no longer make the payments, and had to put her belongings in storage.
“I’m having a hard time getting the kids to appointments, daycare, etc.,” she wrote. “I don’t want my poverty to affect my children this Christmas and would like to be able to give them a good holiday.”
Now in its 52nd year, the Item Santa fund helps to make Christmas brighter for those in need. To donate, clip the coupon in The Item and mail it, along with your check, to The Item Salvation Army Santa, PO Box 5, Lynn, MA 01903.
All donations are listed in The Item print editions, 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 call David Solimine Sr. or Joel Solimine at 781-595-1492.
NOTE: The application period for Item Santa help has closed and The Item does not process applicants. All questions about the program and distribution of gifts should be directed to the Salvation Army at 781-598-0673.
