Saint Nicholas was born on March 15, 270 in present-day Turkey. The third-century Christian bishop was known for his generosity and gift-giving and, nearly 1,800 years later, is the basis for the legend of Santa Claus.
He goes by many names — St. Nick, St. Nicholas, Mr. Claus, Father Christmas, and simply Santa just to name a few. When I think of the jolly fella, I smell the fresh hot chocolate, I feel the warmth of a fireplace, and I hear the Christmas jingles.
It does not matter how this mother remembers Santa. Because to her, all that matters is being able to provide a gift for children.
“This year, I would like to make my children’s Christmas special,” she said.
Our community has the opportunity to help Saint Nicholas’ legend live on and bring a smile to a child’s face this holiday season.
With your gift to Item Santa, each child can have the opportunity to remember Santa how he is meant to be remembered, as the 1,800-year-old larger-than-life bishop known for giving to others.
Now in its 58th 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: salvationarmyma.org/itemsanta.
All donations are listed in Item print editions through the month of December and into 2025, 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.
