Come Christmas Day, households around the world will have presents to rip open and stockings to take off hooks. For many, these activities are an experience, a tradition, an expectation. But for others, factors outside their control sometimes get in the way.
This is the case for one household in the community. Unfortunately, the father has cancer and the mother has to care for him, so neither parent is able to work.
With no steady income, the mother fears there may not be much beneath the tree this year for their son and newborn child.
“Both parents aren’t working,” she said. “[It’s] making it hard to purchase toys.”
Even in cases where household members can work, many American families are struggling. Regardless of the factors that led to it, the bottom line is, inflation is here. Tasks that used to be simple (filling up the gas tank, grabbing takeout) aren’t so easy anymore. Food, utilities, energy and other expenditures are higher, making the “little things” that much more challenging to purchase.
One of those little things might be toys — or even just one toy. Who knows what might delight a newborn child? If we do our part as a community, we can find out.
“I would like help with toys for the baby,” the mother said.
With sickness, unemployed parents, and two kids in the household, toys beneath the tree could make this family’s day.
Now in its 56th year, the Item Santa fund helps to make Christmas brighter for those in need. 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 2023, 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.
