“I am in need of some help this Christmas,” writes a disabled Lynn senior citizen who has full custody of her 10-year-old great-granddaughter. “I am not on Welfare but do get $16 a month in food stamps. I am on a fixed income and doing my best to pay winter bills, but it is tight.”
The little girl loves to draw and “is totally into science,” says the great-grandmother. “Please help me give her a nice Christmas.”
More and more grandparents and great-grandparents in America are finding themselves caring for their children’s children. At a time when they should be relaxing and enjoying the rewards of a lifetime of work, millions of seniors, out of love and necessity, have had to put their retirement plans on hold to care for young family members.
The woman seeking Item Santa’s help doesn’t explain the reasons why she’s become a “parent” the second time around. It really doesn’t matter; she’s taking her childcare responsibilities seriously and doing the right thing for the child’s sake. She probably enjoys having her great-granddaughter around, too, despite the challenges.
Now in its 53rd year, the Item Santa fund helps to make the holidays brighter for those in need. Launched in 1966, the annual fundraiser is run in conjunction with the Salvation Army, which coordinates the program by sorting out requests, purchasing the toys and clothing, and all donations, no matter how small. Last year, the drive netted more than $108,626.51 in pledges. Included in that was a $35,000 donation from General Electric.
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.
