For many American families, the holiday season is a time of great joy and happiness as they gather together to celebrate the rituals of Christmas.
But sometimes the holidays can be especially cruel for families when hard times hit them, especially when they are already struggling to face the ordinary day-to-day challenges of keeping their children clothed, fed and happy in the face of adversity.
Such is the case for one mother, who is battling cancer, and a father who is out of a job. For them, this year’s Christmas season looks especially bleak for their three children, ages 20, 13, and 9.
“Money has been hard and I only get food stamps,” wrote the mother in a letter to Item Santa.
She went to write that, with her illness, “we have not had too much work, but to be able to see my children, who are all great, smart and kind kids and good sons and friends, smile and be happy on Christmas would be greatly appreciated.”
You can make this family’s dreams come true on Christmas morning by making a donation to help celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
Now in its 53rd year, the Item Santa fund helps 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, P.O. Box 5, Lynn, MA 01903.
You can also make an online donation and have your contributions acknowledged by clicking on the following link: https://newitemlive.wpengine.com/itemsanta.
All donations are listed in Item print editions through the month of December into 2020, 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 Salvation Army at 781-598-0673.
