One family that has spent past holidays striving to help others is now in the uncomfortable position of having to ask for assistance this Christmas.
One father of four young boys was left shocked and devastated after he lost what he considered to be his “dream job” after two decades of employment with the same company.
“It’s been difficult putting food on the table and asking family to help us as we were the ones always helping everyone else,” he wrote to Item Santa. “Requesting help for the first time is an experience, but I can’t see sad faces this Christmas.”
Along with struggling to feed his family, the pressure on the father is exacerbated by his four boys, ranging from 2 to 10 years old, asking on a daily basis if everything is going to be OK and if Santa will still pay them a visit this Christmas.
Unfortunately, his boys’ gift requests aren’t cheap either, with their lists including LEGOs, race cars with remote controls, science projects, learning toys, clothes and gift cards.
The whole experience has been “extremely depressing,” he wrote. In addition to the family’s devotion to their faith and reliance on prayers, he said any help with Christmas gifts would be appreciated until they can get back on their feet again and pay the kindness forward.
Now in its 53rd year, the Item Santa fund helps to make Christmas brighter for the needy. 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.
There is also a way to donate online, and have your contributions acknowledged, just click on the following link: https://newitemlive.wpengine.com/itemsanta.
All donations are listed in Item print editions through the month of December and into 2020, along with a brief message from each donor, if desired.
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.
