This year, allergy season began early and has lasted longer as the weather in places remains warm through fall and winter, according to CNN. This spike has led many to suffer longer with sneezing and coughing as the pollen count stays high.
One family is suffering from this long-lasting allergy season and hopes to get help from Item Santa.
“This year has been hard for my son. We’ve been going to many specialists because they think he has internal allergic reactions that make him cough a lot,” the mother wrote.
Allergy testing can cost between $60 to $300 with health insurance, and $200 to $1,000 when paying without insurance, according to Mira Health. Having to see a specialist consistently throughout the year can be a major financial burden, especially if they struggle to find the cause of the allergies.
She also said her other son has been sick often, adding to the rising medical bills. The cost of the specialist and the care for her other son has made it extremely difficult for the family as Christmas approaches. After the hard year, this mother wishes to give her sons a Christmas day that can brighten their spirits.
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.
