There are a lot of things that go into making a memorable Christmas, but perhaps most special — and one that is often taken for granted during the holiday season — is the smile on a child’s face when Santa comes through.
It’s those smiles and the joy his gifts have brought him over the past year that have made one 9-year-old boy give his thanks to Santa while his mother writes in for some much needed help this holiday season.
“Tell Santa he always makes me happy,” he says.
His mother writes that her son has loved the toys he received so much, but as he continues to grow up, he also has grown out of some of those toys. Now she is asking for a helping hand once again to put a smile on her son’s face this Christmas and to make sure that Santa comes through for her son again.
Her and her son are struggling right now and she just wants to be able to say that despite her struggles she was still able to give him a Christmas worth remembering. Something she hopes to be able to do again with the help of her community and the Item Santa.
Because every year she can make her son smile on Christmas morning is another year their family becomes stronger.
“We appreciate the helping hand,” she writes. “Because with every helping hand we build unity. And the more unity our family absorbs, the more strength we gain.”
It’s a healthy reminder to us all that while a child may outgrow their toys and gifts, the memories they make each Christmas will last forever in their hearts.
Now in its 53rd year, the Item Santa fund helps to 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, PO Box 5, Lynn, MA 01903.
There is also a way to donate online, and have your contributions acknowledged, just click on the following link: https://newitemlive.wpengine.com/itemsanta.
All donations are listed in Item print editions through the month of December and 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