Gift-giving is one of the five love languages, and during the holiday season, love fills the air. Giving gifts is a way for people to express their love, whether it’s to kids, friends, partners, or family members.

However, in 2024, the cost of living keeps rising, and it’s harder for families to keep up with bills while ensuring their kids have a holiday season to remember. According to a CBS article posted earlier this year, the median price of a single-family home in Massachusetts was $550,000 in 2022 and rose to $570,000 in 2023. That number will continue to rise in 2024 and 2025. 

Item Santa is looking at this particular family, which has struggled with the difficulties of the cost of prices and utilities. This family wants to make sure their two kids have a holiday season to remember by providing gifts. 

“Life [has been] so hard, and expenses have been more than income,” they said. “I need some help to give my kids a nice Christmas.” 

Every child deserves to get presents at Christmas, and one’s situation shouldn’t stop them from being able to put a smile on their face. 

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.