Losing a job can create a whole host of problems any time of the year. Losing a job around the holidays just multiplies those problems.

The stress and financial hardship of being without work while trying to provide Christmas for one’s children on top of the other everyday expenses is especially daunting.

One parent who wrote to Item Santa finds herself in this very predicament.

“I had lost my job recently, and it’s been hard trying to keep up with the bills,” she wrote.

Being without a job around Christmas is not uncommon. 

According to the Wall Street Journal, December is the second-highest month for job cuts, with January being the highest.

While the holiday season should be a time of celebration, it can also be a time for companies to complete restructurings and reduce staff as budget planning begins for the following year.

This leaves impacted parents struggling to provide whatever Christmas joy they can for their children.

This parent is seeking assistance to do just that.

“My kids are very young and believe in Santa,” she wrote to Item Santa. “I would love to see the joy on their faces with toys under the tree. Anything helps.”

These young children still believe in the magic of Christmas, and you can help make that magic happen with a donation to Item Santa.

Now in its 57th year, the Item Santa Fund helps to make Christmas brighter for those in need. To donate, clip the coupon in The Item and mail it, along with your check, to The Item Salvation Army Santa, 85 Exchange St., Lynn, MA 01901. 

There is also a way to donate online through the Salvation Army at itemsanta.org.

All donations are listed in Item print editions through the month of December and into 2024, 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.