You hear it everywhere: These are trying times. Unprecedented times. Unfortunate times. Bewildering, uncertain, scary times.
The shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic and its multiple variants has loomed large over this country for almost two years, and for some people it has brought with it all the misfortune in the world. But one thing some of us lose sight of is that, in the midst of COVID-19’s many misfortunes, everyday tragedies have continued to proliferate.
People still get sick, car accidents still happen, jobs are lost, opportunities are missed. While these problems can sometimes start to feel mundane in the face of a global pandemic, they are everywhere. And they can, and do, affect everybody.
A mother recently told Item Santa that she gave birth in June to her second child. While this would normally be cause for celebration ― and it was ― her baby girl was born prematurely.
What would normally be an exciting time filled with baby clothes, trips to the park, and games of peek-a-boo has been tempered with hospitalizations and prolonged medical issues.
To make matters worse, the father of this small family had to quit his job so that he could stay home and watch the baby girl’s older brother, who is all of 4 years old.
The mother who wrote to Item Santa isn’t looking for fancy gadgets or expensive vacations for her young family (although, let’s face it, everyone deserves to pamper themselves). Instead, she humbly asked for clothes and shoes for her two children under the age of 5.
Now in its 55th 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, 85 Exchange St., Lynn, MA 01901.You can also donate online through the Salvation Army at itemsanta.org.All donations are listed in Item print editions through the month of December and into 2022, 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.
