No matter who you are, any unforeseen expense or complication can be catastrophic and throw life into chaos. Something as small as a fender bender can upend even the best-laid plans, particularly during the holiday season when money is especially tight. A medical diagnosis or chronic condition can be even more devastating, especially if it forces an extended absence from work.

It’s a scenario that became all too common during the COVID-19 pandemic, and one many families still struggle with as the pandemic and its economic impacts linger.

For one family this holiday season, that unfortunate circumstance has left them on the brink of homelessness.

A father of three wrote to Item Santa asking for help for his three children, ages 10, 8, and 3. The father is on medical leave while he fights an immune disorder, leaving his family with one less source of income at a critical time of year.

“Due to my health I’ve lost our home,” he wrote, explaining that the family is staying with relatives but might end up homeless while waiting for an opening somewhere else.

The father said his wife works as an EMT driver but doesn’t make enough to support the five of them. And, she is in school studying to become an EMT herself, but as a result, this family is struggling to make ends meet.

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 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.