Among the many heartfelt messages sent to Item Santa this season, one letter from a young mother captures the determination and worry so many local families are feeling. Recently divorced and trying to rebuild life with her daughter, she reached out in hopes of giving her child a Christmas filled with warmth and memories.
She opened her letter candidly:
“Dear Santa, I am a recent divorcee, it is my daughter and I in this life with no additional help, my rent alone is over 90% of what I make in one month.”
Like many single parents, she is juggling essential bills on a single income. After rent consumes nearly everything she earns, she must stretch what remains to cover food, utilities, car insurance, and basic household needs.
“I am also currently enrolled in college and have to pay tuition out of pocket.”
Despite these pressures, she is committed to her education. She wrote that completing her degree is not only for her own future, but a message of strength and perseverance for her daughter:
“I will further my education so I can be an example for my daughter that we can make it if we put our minds to it.”
Her love for her daughter is clear in every line. Even if her child is too young now to understand the sacrifices her mother is making, she hopes that someday the photos and videos she saves will help tell the story.
“I need my daughter to have a colorful, loving and fun childhood, and I know she will not remember this at such a young age, but I will… even though her dad is not helping and is not present, I try my best to give her what she deserves.”
Her wish is simple: for her daughter to have a holiday filled with joy and affection, something brighter than the financial strain they face each day.
This mother’s struggle is not unique. Families across Lynn and the surrounding communities are doing everything they can to cover rent, groceries, childcare, health expenses, and rising utility costs. The holiday season, which should be overflowing with gratitude and togetherness, too often becomes a time of anxiety and uncertainty.
A contribution to Item Santa can help ensure this family — and many others like them — experience the kind of Christmas every child deserves. Even modest donations make a meaningful impact during a season when so many are worried about food, housing, and basic stability.
Now in its 59th year, the Item Santa Fund continues to brighten Christmas for local residents who need support the most.
To give, please clip the coupon in The Daily Item and send it with your check to:
The Item Salvation Army Santa
85 Exchange St.
Lynn, MA 01901
Online contributions can also be made at salvationarmyma.org/itemsanta, where donors may choose to have their names acknowledged. All donations will be printed in The Item throughout December and into early 2026, with space for a brief message from donors who wish to include one.
For questions regarding eligibility, gift distribution, or scheduling, contact the Salvation Army at 781-598-0673.
