What makes the holiday season so special? For many, this season’s greatest moments will take place at home, with presents wrapped under a brightly lit Christmas tree and maybe some Christmas music playing, while the whole family enjoys being around each other in the living room.
But often we can take for granted the greatest comforts and traditions that other families aren’t so lucky to have this year, like one mother and her three children — one 22-year-old young adult and a pair of young girls aged nine and 10 — who saw their whole lives flipped upside down during the pandemic.
“This year has been rough and this virus has destroyed things for so many families all over the world,” the mother wrote. “Unfortunately we are one of those families who lost their homes during the pandemic.”
Without a place to call home, taking time to celebrate this holiday season has obviously been at the bottom of her list.
“This was the first Thanksgiving that I could not do for my family because I have no stove, home, etc.,” she wrote. “But what I am thankful for every day is that we are still together and for me as a mom that is everything I really need.”
Her family especially has been her rock, putting on brave faces during these uncertain times.
“Even though the stress of this world changes for us, my children still continue to wear a happy face through it all. And I would love to continue to see those happy faces all the way through the holiday season.”
Hopefully those smiles can continue Christmas morning with a little bit of normalcy for a family that hasn’t had much of it this season. That’s where Item Santa can give an assist to a mother who needs it now more than ever.
“I know I am just one of many, but really would love the help if possible,” she wrote.
Now in its 54th 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 2021, 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 the Salvation Army at 781-598-0673.
