Maureen Tucker made it clear when she was about to die: she wanted to make sure that any contributions people made in her memory be directed to the Item Santa Fund.
This was a charity near and dear to her. She often donated to the fund herself.
It was a beautiful, genuine gesture and we at The Item appreciated it then, and we certainly appreciate it now, especially when you read our first Item Santa list of contributors. Twelve families have already donated to the fund in her name.
The contributions were of varying amounts individually, but when you put them all together, they total $1,550. Between that and the early $35,000 gift from the General Electric Good Neighbor Fund, we are off to a flying start in our annual mission to make Christmas much happier for people who would otherwise be doing without.
Very soon, the Salvation Army — which partners with The Item on the annual fund drive — will have toys it was able to purchase through this fund delivered to its newly-refurbished gym. Once they’re all organized and arranged, people deemed eligible will be able to come to the headquarters and perhaps get that toy, or coat, that will go a long way toward making Christmas brighter.
None of this is possible without the help Item readers have provided for the last 53 years. You’ve been very generous.
Just remember, no contribution, regardless of how small you think it is, goes unnoticed or unappreciated. Sometimes, there is a razor-thin line that separates those who need the money and those who donate it. And we know that in such cases, no donation is deemed too small. It will go toward making someone’s Christmas happier.
So today, we give the late Maureen Tucker a big shoutout. Her thoughtfulness and generosity of spirit will go a long way toward making this drive successful.
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.
