Most young parents eagerly anticipate their child’s first Christmas.
Celebrating the holiday with the family’s newest addition is something mothers, fathers, and relatives look forward to as they happily document the occasion, getting to know their baby while surrounded by an atmosphere of warmth and joy. Some siblings of new babies enjoy the holidays because it’s a chance for them to get as much attention as their cute, small counterparts.
For new mom Kelsey, however, several months of unpaid maternity leave has left her anxious that she’ll be unable to provide her older child, daughter Kaylyn, with a joyful Christmas Day.
“I would like assistance this year for gifts for my baby, Kaylyn, because I (went) on maternity leave before Thanksgiving,” Kelsey said in her letter to Item Santa. “I will be home for 3 months without pay.”
She worries Kaylyn will feel overshadowed by the arrival of her new baby sister.
“I would like for my princess to have a Christmas and not think I forgot about her because her new baby sister came (in) to this world,” Kelsey’s letter said. “Please help. Thank you.”
Help make sure kids like Kaylyn feel noticed this holiday season by donating to the Item Santa fund.
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.