For many, Christmas is a time of joy and relaxation.
But for parents who are barely making ends meet, the pressure to provide Christmas gifts for their children can put a stranglehold on their finances.
That’s the scenario one new mother finds herself in this holiday season. The woman is asking Item Santa for assistance to make her son’s first Christmas memorable.
She works hard, goes to school and does everything she can to provide for her son, but can still barely keep up with her rent, bills and monthly expenses.
“Although sometimes it feels impossible to stay ahead and maintain, I will never give up,” the mother wrote. “I really need help this Christmas. It breaks my heart that there is a great possibility I will not be able to give (my son) the Christmas he deserves.”
The woman isn’t asking for much. Her son is in need of a winter coat, clothing, and learning toys to support his cognitive development.
“(My son) is growing fast, and is at a very important learning stage,” she wrote. “I can only hope for help this Christmas with him growing so rapidly, and adjusting to new things and learning.”
The mother works year-round with little personal benefit or reward and doesn’t seek out assistance for providing for her son. Market rent, bills and everyday expenses does a number on her budget, but she’s asking for help to make sure it doesn’t harm her son’s first Christmas as well.
“(My son) and I will take whatever we can get,” she wrote. “We are appreciative and happy with anything anyone can help with.”
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.
