Case 45: Mrs O and her six children lost almost all their possessions in a flood earlier this year and moved into a flat – but now face eviction and the prospect of living in their car, with nowhere else to go. Five of her six children have been diagnosed with ADHD and behavioral disorders, requiring specialist care and support. Mrs. O had to quit her job because she had no one to help her care for her children and was dealing with these extraordinary struggles alone. Meanwhile, her children miss out on the essential services and resources they need because of their family’s dire financial situation and lack of outside support.

Case 46: Ms. J is a single mother of 9 and a survivor of domestic violence. Her ex-husband has not helped financially with the children and she is struggling. Mrs. J works as hard as she can to pay the bills, but she can’t buy things for the children and the household. She wants a better life for her family and is doing the best she can, but she might need some help this holiday season.

Case 47: Mrs. P recently had an accident that damaged her car, so she had to buy another vehicle for her family of seven. She works full time but can’t keep up with the bills and has had to put more money into paying off the wrecked car. Mrs. P and her family would greatly appreciate help with home repairs, a baby fence, twin beds and bedding, and grocery gift cards.

Case 48: Mrs. K and her family have suffered so much loss this year. Her brother was robbed and killed over the summer while he was in town visiting her. She had to pay for his funeral, which meant she fell behind on some of her bills. She also lost two aunts and two uncles in 2024. One of her four children lives with mental illness and ADHD. Ms. K also faced her own health challenges. He is also struggling financially because he is owed child support, which is often unpaid. The family needs winter clothing and shoes, and the children would be delighted to receive toys, books, games and puzzles.

Case Profiles by Sarah Garrecht Gassen