Providing for a family while on a fixed income is a challenge any time of year.

That challenge is exacerbated during the holiday season, especially for a single parent.

“I am a single mom of three kids,” one parent wrote to Item Santa. “My only income is SSI, and unfortunately, it’s not enough to get everything my kids need and want.”

In addition, two of her children suffer from breathing problems, making the situation even more daunting for this single mom.

While the federal government announced that SSI recipients will soon receive a 3.2% cost of living increase, that increase does not go into effect until after the holiday season – too late to help with Christmas.

According to the Social Security Administration, the first checks with the adjustment will be the January payments, which will be deposited on Dec. 29 due to the New Year’s Day holiday.

With this in mind, this single mom is reaching out for help in bringing Christmas cheer to her children.

“I am asking if I can get any help with anything to make my kids’ Christmas this year,” she wrote.

The good news is that you can help this family by giving to Item Santa.

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.

The coupon can also be found online at this link: http://itemlive.com/itemsanta

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.