Far too often, we underestimate the importance of stay-at-home parents. American photographer and filmographer Laurie Simmons refers to the role of a housewife as a “home engineer,” and I can’t think of a better way to describe the job.

“I am a housewife and mother of four,” a member of the community wrote. “I do not work for that reason. My husband works, but his salary barely makes it. I am asking Santa to please help with gifts this Christmas.”

Christmas is a magical time of year for everyone. The sky gets darker earlier, but the streets brighten with string lights and holiday decorations. The air gets colder, but smiles always feel a bit warmer.

For a parent, the joy of seeing their children smile from cheek to cheek when they open their Christmas morning presents is irreplaceable. And for the children, the hope is that their smiles never go away.

A mother of four is doing everything she can to bring joy — and never-ending smiles — to her children, but needs a little help. Please help Item Santa make her dreams a reality with your donation.

Now in its 58th 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.

The coupon can also be found online at this link: https://itemlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/page.pdf

All donations are listed in Item print editions through the month of December and into 2025, 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.