If there is one thing that I’ve learned from my first year writing for the Item Santa, it’s that the overwhelming love parents have for their children is universal.
Every letter we receive is written by people all with different backgrounds and their own unique story, but each one is united by an unadulterated selflessness for the happiness of their child this holiday season.
I’m sure this is a feeling that many of you reading this can relate to in one way or another. For me, I think of how my parents have surprised me over many Christmas mornings with exactly what I was wishing for.
It’s this expression of love through gift giving that makes this time of year so special, when caregivers around the world hope to make their child’s dreams come true on that special day.
Yet, for many parents, affording those dreams can turn the holidays into a nightmare as the stress of everyday costs proves to already be unforgiving and adding a new toy into the mix seems near impossible.
This is the reality of a single mom who works tirelessly to provide for her son. She is asking that you help with gifting her son toys for the big day.
Every parent deserves the ability to put a smile on their child’s face. By donating to the Item Santa, you can ensure that this family’s Christmas is one of joy, love, and plenty of grins.
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.
