The unsteady job market and the skyrocketing cost of living this year is impacting parents and their children immensely, and families can feel the effects especially during the holiday season.
One parent who recently wrote to Item Santa is currently out of a job this holiday season. Despite their struggle, they are not giving up. They are making many sacrifices to provide for their children just so they can put a roof over their heads and food on the table.
Because of this, they unfortunately do not have enough remaining resources to provide Christmas gifts to their little ones.
“Dear Santa, I am writing this letter for help with some gifts for Christmas, for my children,” they wrote.
They want to make Christmas special for their children, selflessly asking for gifts for their young ones, and not for themself.
“I am currently not employed, and living costs are very difficult. Between rent and food for my children, I do not have enough money for gifts this year for my children,” they added.
A contribution to Item Santa can help ensure this family — and many others like them — have something to anticipate this holiday season. Every donation counts when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a time where so many families are struggling to make ends meet.
Now in its 59th year, the Item Santa Fund helps bring Christmas joy to local residents in need. The Item collects donations while The Salvation Army purchases and distributes toys and essentials to approved families in the area.
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.
