Everyone deserves a little holiday magic this winter, yet not everybody has the resources to ensure that this Christmas is filled with special stocking stuffers and presents underneath a festively-decorated tree.
One mother wrote to Item Santa to kindly ask for help this holiday season.
She explained that she’s a single mother, and her finances are very limited right now. She said she’s only able to work a few days/week, which isn’t nearly enough to pay her rent, bills, and other expenses — let alone provide a memorable Christmas for her son.
“Through you, I am asking for help for my son, for a gift so that he can have a smile on his face this year,” she said. “I don’t have enough to buy him a gift because I don’t have any close family; it’s just my son and me. I do everything possible to give him what he needs, and this is the first time I am requesting your support.”
She also said she will be sending prayers to Santa, and she will be grateful for “whatever you feel moved to give to my child.”
“May you bless him and give him many blessings, and may they be multiplied,” her letter ends.
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.
