The inflation rate has skyrocketed all across the United States in the past few years. Prices have been increasing significantly on everything from car payments to groceries, sometimes much faster than people can save up.

This is especially felt by families in Massachusetts, which is near the top of the list of most expensive states to live in. Rent prices are no exception. One parent who wrote to Item Santa said they are forced to spend more than 50 percent of their salary on rent and utilities and are not compensated enough at work to help offset those costs.

“I need help to purchase toys for my children because I don’t make enough at work,” the parent wrote.

In the current economic climate, paying for rent with a low-wage job is hard enough, considering that some parents who get paid bi-weekly, like this one, saving money can be challenging. Specifically around the holidays, some parents struggle to balance giving their children gifts while managing other expenses.

This Christmas, they hope to gift their children a memorable holiday in any way they can.

“I just want to do my best to try and give my children the kind of Christmas I never had,” they wrote. “Although I know toys aren’t everything, it’ll definitely help put a smile on my children’s faces.”

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 The 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.