Thank you for considering making a donation to the individuals and families in our Gift of Christmas collection. Please read the following stories and find someone you would like to help this Christmas. Or, simply make a donation to be used wherever the need is greatest. 

If you have any questions, please email msnow@cc-doj.org or call 815-724-1140.

If we receive enough donations to fulfill the needs of all clients listed, additional donations will go toward our Annual Christmas Appeal, which will take care of clients served by Catholic Charities year-round. May God Bless you and your family.

The stories below are all true stories about current clients at Catholic Charities. Their names have been changed to protect their privacy.

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1. Steve and his teenage son spent a long time living on the streets. The family lost their home when Steve was injured, became disabled, and unable to work in the warehouse job where he had made his living for many years. Without an income, no family support, and mounting medical bills; the pair ended up without a home – often sleeping in public parks. Steve’s 16 year-old son eventually stopped attending school due to their circumstances (mainly exhaustion). The family turned a corner when they were accepted into a Catholic Charities Transitional Housing Program. The teen was re-enrolled in school and began seeing a therapist to process his trauma. Steve also applied for disability benefits. The father and son are beginning their journey toward healing and a fresh start. A gift of $200 will be used to purchase shoes and clothing, which both of them need badly.   

2. Ophelia, 68, is the guardian for her young great-granddaughters, whose mother has passed away. She’s a born caregiver and loves to take care of everyone. The girls are both doing well and seeing a therapist for extra support. Both children are adored by the other seniors in Ophelia’s apartment complex. On a fixed income and with two children to care for, she struggles financially. A gift of $250 will be used to purchase clothing, princess dresses, and art supplies for Ophelia’s sweet great-granddaughters.    

3. Kevin, 30, has a developmental disability, but he never received any special support in school and only made it through his freshman year of high school. Unfortunately, Kevin didn’t have family support because his parents were incarcerated from the time he was a toddler. Over the past three years, Kevin has experienced severe depression. When Kevin suffered an internal injury, he was unable to do his temp work and came to Daybreak Center. He continues to impress those around him with his ability to follow through with his many medical appointments and take the necessary steps toward health and housing. When we asked this hard-working and motivated man what he wants for Christmas, he struggled to answer because it was a question he’d never been asked before. After some thought, Kevin said that he would use a $150 gift for t-shirts, sweatshirts, and waterproof boots to prevent frostbite this winter. 

4. Lou, 61, lived outside in the woods for twenty years. He occasionally came to Shepherd’s Table for lunch and a shower, always pleasant, polite, and grateful for any kindness shown to him. Though he wasn’t ready for shelter at the time, Catholic Charities was able to provide Lou with warm clothing and other essentials over the years. 

After decades without medical care, Lou began to experience health issues and mental health challenges. When he was finally ready to enter a Permanent Supportive Housing program, he was both excited and nervous. He worried he didn’t deserve the help and almost let his fear keep him from moving in. 

Six years later, Lou receives medical and dental care, never misses an appointment, and takes his health seriously. He keeps his apartment spotless, enjoys cooking for himself, and occasionally for his neighbors. 

Still, after so many years outdoors, Lou finds it difficult to sleep in his bedroom. The quiet, enclosed space makes him anxious; he feels more at ease in familiar surroundings, so he continues to sleep in his living room, where he can see the door and feel safe. Each morning, he makes coffee the same way he did when he lived in the woods. 

This summer, Lou suffered a stroke but is recovering well, aside from some vision challenges. He doesn’t ask for much and remains very grateful for the support he receives. With a gift of $150 this Christmas, Lou could purchase a new set of pots and pans and maybe a small TV to enjoy watching his beloved Cubs. 

5. Liz, 50, is experiencing homelessness and occasionally sleeps on a friend’s couch. Since childhood, Liz has struggled with her mental health. She’s experienced a lot of trauma and is seeing a therapist from Catholic Charities to help process her difficult history. Recently, Liz started working again, but she hasn’t made enough money to move into an apartment. And she wants to do it on her own – Liz never asks for help while she quietly faces her challenges. Liz’s therapist said that she has a bright and positive aura and is always working hard to improve her situation. Your gift of $150 will help Liz purchase household items once she moves into an apartment.  

6. Edward, 71, is a Vietnam Veteran who lives with his disabled partner. Neither is able to work much and live on a very low income. The couple are on their own without friends or local family members. After a period of homelessness, which brought them to Catholic Charities’ Kathy Paulsen Hope House, the couple recently moved into an apartment of their own! They are thrilled to have their own space and say that they love cooking and cleaning. Edward was excited to tell his case manager that they recently adopted a sweet cat for companionship. Your gift of $150 will be used to purchase kitchen items and cleaning supplies, with any remaining funds used to buy toys for the kitten.  

7. Danielle and her three young daughters were homeless last year after she left an abusive marriage. While she stayed in the shelter, Danielle worked hard and was quickly approved to move into a two-bedroom apartment. She also works diligently on developing her life skills and is meticulous about managing her home budget and finances. Danielle says that her strong faith in God can get her through anything. A gift of $200 will help this dedicated mother provide Christmas gifts for her three daughters as they celebrate in their own home.  

8. Carol, 82, has been in and out of the hospital for months, including a few days in the ICU. At home, Carol is the caregiver for her 52-year-old disabled son. It’s challenging (physically and emotionally) for Carol to maintain her own fragile health while also caring for her son. A $300 gift will help Carol purchase necessities like food, clothing, and maybe something fun to enjoy that they wouldn’t usually be able to buy for themselves. 

9. Lakeisha, 38, lost everything very quickly and found herself experiencing homelessness with her two daughters (including a one-year-old baby). In quick succession, Lakeisha lost her housing, her car broke down (and repairs were too expensive to afford), and she lost her job. With nowhere else to go, Lakeisha brought her family to Catholic Charities’ Kathy Paulsen Hope House shelter. They recently moved into an apartment with assistance from Catholic Charities. Lakeisha is working in the kitchen at a daycare and lives on a very low income. After the rent and bills are paid, nothing is left. A gift of $200 this Christmas would help Lakeisha purchase some décor for her apartment, which currently feels very bare. She said that she wants it to feel more like a home and more comfortable for her children. Lakeisha is always so grateful for the help she receives and would be thankful for your kindness.  

10. Virginia, 70, lives on an income of only $550 each month from Social Security. The amount is so low because she worked cash jobs for most of her life. Unable to afford food after her bills are paid, Virginia uses food pantries. If you met Virginia, you would never know how much she struggles. In fact, she’s well-known in her senior living apartment complex as the person to ask if anyone needs a ride somewhere. She’s always happy to help. Virginia participates in Catholic Charities’ Money Management Program. Your gift of $150 will allow Virginia to treat herself to something that she could not otherwise afford. And we think this wonderful woman deserves something special.  

11. Alex is a hardworking single parent with a three-year-old daughter. They lived in a shelter before Catholic Charities helped them move into a home of their own. Alex now works full-time, pays bills/rent on time, and is showing strong responsibility. A gift of $200 will be used to purchase toys for the toddler to open on Christmas morning (along with some household necessities). 

12. Marilyn, 65, has been the primary caregiver to her husband, Bill, since he suffered a stroke, which left him partially paralyzed two years ago. Bill hasn’t been able to work, which has put a huge financial strain on the household. Marilyn participates in Catholic Charities’ caregiver programs to find support and resources. This major shift in Marilyn’s life has been challenging, but she’s handling it with grace. A gift of $200 will provide food, toiletries, and supplies for their cat and dog.   

13. Leah, 29, recently escaped an abusive relationship after giving birth to a very premature baby boy. She’s now living with her mother and facing serious emotional struggles due to her stressful situation. Leah does a good job advocating for herself and is working hard to regain her independence and create a better life for her little boy. A gift of $200 will help Leah purchase items for her new baby.  

14. Martha, a disabled 65-year-old, was living in a motel and just had most of her possessions stolen when she arrived at Catholic Charities’ Kathy Paulsen Hope House. Since that time, Martha has moved into an apartment that she can afford, but doesn’t have any money left over after paying her rent and bills. A gift of $150 would help Martha purchase much-needed clothing. She’s embarrassed by her current clothes and especially wants an outfit to wear to church.  

15. Terrance, 42, recently had a stroke, which left him with weakness on the right side of his body and impacted his speech. Although his speech can be challenging to understand, Terrance ensures that everyone knows he feels blessed. Every time Terrance meets with his case manager, he expresses gratitude for the help he’s received from Catholic Charities – particularly a lift chair that has helped him at home. Terrance lives with his mother, who is a wonderful and loving advocate for his needs. A gift of $200 will provide items to help make their home more comfortable. We know that Terrance would be incredibly grateful for your help!  

16. Lorri, 69, has been receiving help from Catholic Charities’ Money Management Program for three years as she navigates financial struggles. She often finds herself confused and mixes up numbers when she’s trying to manage her bills. Lorri is known in her community for her generosity. She gives her neighbors vegetables from her garden each summer and loves being able to help others in need. Your gift of $150 will be used for gardening supplies, which Lorri can’t usually afford, but will help her grow her own food and donate to her neighbors next summer!      

17. Meg, 33, is thankful to have a safe home after leaving an abusive relationship. As part of a Catholic Charities housing program, Meg and her two young children live in a cozy apartment. Fearing that she would see her abuser, Meg didn’t go outside of her home with the children until recently. It’s been extremely hard for her to maintain employment as a single parent with a child who has physical disabilities, which requires a lot of Meg’s time and energy. However, this dedicated mother never gives up and continues to strive for a better life for her children. A gift of $250 will help Meg with household goods and toys.   

18. Juan works two jobs to help support his wife and their two children. He’s also enrolled in school to help build a bright future in the U.S. Since arriving, he and his wife have quickly learned English. It’s been a whirlwind – Juan reports that he and his wife are so busy that they usually only get around 2-3 hours of sleep each night. With hard work, Juan was able to save up enough money to move out of the basement where they were staying. This family is doing great, but can still use some extra support this Christmas. Your gift of $300 will provide Christmas gifts for Juan’s 11 year-old son and 9 year-old daughter.  

19. Vivian is a single mother who cares for her child and her own aging mother. She’s had a difficult life and is seeing a Catholic Charities therapist to work through her painful past. Vivian has a college degree and is eager to work, but has been forced into a full-time family caregiver situation. Without an income, she struggles with even the most basic expenses. Your gift of $200 will be used to purchase food for this family.   

20. Dione, 34, was basically on her own as a child. As she grew up, she struggled with substance use disorder, PTSD, anxiety, and was the victim of several terrible assaults. Dione sees a therapist with Catholic Charities as she works toward a brighter future. Her children aren’t able to live with her, but she sees them whenever possible. Today, Dione is sober, has a job, and is doing very well. A gift of $250 will be used for Dione to purchase Christmas gifts for her children.   

21. Loreen, 80, has been a dedicated Senior Companion Program volunteer with Catholic Charities for eleven years! Last year, her husband passed away, and Loreen has been especially grateful for the socialization she enjoys from the program. She’s a favorite in the program because she’s fun, a great listener, and truly cares for all of her companions. A gift of $150 will help Loreen as she prepares to move into an affordable senior living apartment complex.  

22. Luis, 61, works long hours at a nursing home and sends most of his income to his wife, who lives in another country and was recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. When Luis came to Catholic Charities for help, he felt embarrassed. Luis needed help with his day-to-day expenses – even after pawning all of his belongings that had value. Since receiving help, he has called his case manager several times to ask about volunteer opportunities because he wants to “give back” to the organization that assisted him during a difficult time. A gift of $150 will help Luis cover some basic needs items at the end of a very rough year.  

23. Sue, 66, raised her two children, and helped raise her 12 grandchildren! She is a very reliable volunteer with Catholic Charities. In fact, she’s still volunteering despite suffering from chronic pain and using a wheelchair. A $150 donation will purchase groceries, dog food, cleaning supplies, and personal care items for this woman who gives so much of herself for others.  

24. Natalie, 33, is a mother of four children who sometimes feels like she’s lost her identity in motherhood. Her husband is a truck driver who is away most of the time. Without any friends or family nearby, Natalie feels very isolated. Money is very tight and Natalie feels like she spends all of her time working, cleaning, cooking, and taking care of the children. Her therapist at Catholic Charities describes Natalie as “an amazing person who is struggling.” She doesn’t have insurance and receives no help from the government. However, she ensures that she attends therapy with the goal of becoming a better wife and mother. When we asked Natalie what she wanted for Christmas, she replied, “I don’t know. Nobody has asked me that before.” After thinking for a bit, she decided that she would spend your $350 gift on cookware and Christmas gifts for her children.  

25. Since the mother of Ty’s two young children passed away, he’s been parenting alone. He does the best he can for his 5 year-old and 2 year-old children. He lost his job and is looking for a new one – but has no income right now. Ty’s children attend Catholic Charities Head Start program. Right now, the children share a single twin mattress, so Ty would use your $250 donation for a second mattress. He would also like to purchase a mattress for himself because he’s currently sleeping on the floor. They could also use a car seat and a stroller.  

26. Carl, 81, was recently devastated by the loss of his dear wife. While he’s emotionally coping with living alone, he’s also navigating a life where he’s trying to survive on a single income. Since we first met Carl, he’s started taking better care of himself physically and emotionally – we see improvements every day! He cannot afford anything beyond the most basic living expenses, so Carl would use your $150 to purchase clothing and personal care items.    

27. Janiyah, 26, lives with her mother and her two young children. She lost her job earlier this year and spent several months without income while searching for a new position. Janiyah’s younger son attends Catholic Charities’ Head Start because this mother wants to provide the best education possible for her boys. She’s known for her radiant smile and peaceful aura. We were proud of Janiyah when she recently sought counseling from Catholic Charities to work through the stress of being a single mother. A gift of $300 will purchase clothing for Janiyah’s growing boys. 

28. Leo is a single father who was recently homeless with his two children. They spent several months in a shelter before entering a Catholic Charities Rapid Rehousing Program. Leo is very responsible – he works hard at his job and maintains close contact with his case manager. Both of his children are bright kids who enjoy playing with action figures and video games. Since this family is re-building after a period of homelessness, a gift of $250 will help purchase household goods and toys for the children this Christmas. 

29. Celia and her husband have three children. Her husband works as a gardener, which is only during spring and summer. When he works, the family saves as much money as possible to pay rent and bills for the rest of the year. Celia is very careful with how she spends money. She worries about having enough food for her family. A gift of $350 will help Celia purchase clothes and food.    

30. Kendall and her ten year old daughter lived in a hotel for nearly a year after losing their home. It was very important to Kendall that her daughter remained in the same school she attended when they were housed. Catholic Charities assisted this single mother with a deposit for an apartment so that she and her daughter could move out of the hotel and into their own space. Your $200 gift will be a wonderful Christmas surprise for this mother who has had a very difficult year.  

31. Norm, 69, struggles to pay his bills as he lives on a fixed income. He participates in Catholic Charities’ Money Management Program and is diligent about his finances and following his budget closely. He earns a bit of extra cash doing odd jobs, but is still struggling. A gift of $150 would be used to purchase clothing, personal care items, and some of Norm’s favorite food.   

32. Lauren has four children and a husband who works the night shift as a custodian. Her husband is taking classes this semester with the goal of securing a higher paying job for the family. Lauren hasn’t been able to work recently because she doesn’t have a car and also struggles with her mental health. She homeschools one of her children because she is so worried about the child’s mental health. Another of Lauren’s four children, her 16 year old daughter, was recently hospitalized after stating that she wanted to take her own life. The family felt devastated, and Lauren’s husband even took a bit of time off of work to support his wife and children emotionally. The entire family is going through a very rough patch financially and emotionally. A gift of $350 will help them have a bright Christmas amidst the darkness.  

33. Elena is a victim of human trafficking. When she first arrived in the U.S. at age 17, she was held hostage. Although she is no longer in that situation, Elena’s journey has continued to be difficult. She’s a single mother of three children and has had trouble staying housed. Recently, she and her children moved into their own apartment and they are all very excited for a fresh start. A gift of $300 will provide Christmas gifts for Elena’s children.  

34. Felipe, 30, his wife, and their three children lived in a vehicle for more than year before coming to Daybreak Center. Their 9 and 5 year old daughters are cheerful and fun girls. They absolutely adore their baby brother and help take care of him as much as they can. The family stayed in transitional housing at Daybreak before moving into a Rapid Rehousing program in a place of their own. The family’s new home has a large yard for the children to run and play – something they never take for granted after experiencing homelessness. Felipe has a job and his wife is looking for one. The family is extremely grateful for the support they have received. A gift of $350 will provide bed sheets, cups, plates, and cookware for the family. And for Christmas, the girls dream of jewelry-making supplies.  

35. Tiana, 40, and her two teenage daughters have demonstrated remarkable resilience and strength over the past year. After leaving a domestic violence shelter, the family entered Catholic Charities’ Partners in Housing Program, where they are safe and stable. Tiana is in school and plans to start a nursing program next year. Tiana’s 16 year old daughter has been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and your $250 gift would help purchase a sewing machine for this young woman who finds creative outlets very healing. She also plans to study fashion design in college and the sewing machine would help her prepare. Tiana’s 14 year old daughter would love to have a makeup kit and LED rope lights to decorate her bedroom. Tiana would use the money to purchase new towels and a coffee maker.  

36. Elias, 3, has a very loving and supportive family. The family faces barriers that make it hard to move freely in their community. As a result, they often feel isolated and anxious, unsure where it’s safe to turn for help. A gift of $350 would provide blankets, towels, toys, and a gas card for this family.  

37. Jasmine, 30, has worked extremely hard to stabilize her circumstances since she entered a Catholic Charities Rapid Rehousing Program. In a short time, she got a higher-paying job, a car, and began taking classes. Jasmine is a single mother with a 12 year old son who has learning challenges. He’s an active boy who loves to play outside. We are excited to watch Jasmine and her son as they blossom and thrive! Your gift of $200 will provide toys and household goods to this family that lost most of their belongings while experiencing homelessness.  

38. Alexandra was living with her children’s father until he began hitting and verbally humiliating her. She and the children moved in with a relative to escape the abuse. This mother of four works full-time, but has a low-income. Your donation of $350 would provide winter coats and clothing for Alexandra’s daughters, who haven’t had new clothes in a very long time.    

39. Jorge was in a relationship with a woman who struggles with a sever substance use disorder. The couple broke up and Jorge’s ex-girlfriend made accusations of violence which resulted in losing custody of their son. Jorge has been working hard to regain custody of their son. He’s taken parenting classes and sees a therapist regularly. Jorge is truly doing everything he can. His therapist says that he’s a great guy who doesn’t have anger or addiction issues. He’s extremely self-motivated and kind. And he aches for his son. Jorge is living with his aging parents and caring for them while they face serious health challenges. We believe that Jorge will soon be reunited with his son. A gift of $200 would help Jorge buy Christmas gifts for his son, including books and toys.          

40. Judy, 70, was a cherished volunteer with Catholic Charities’ Senior Companion Program for three years. She was a companion to seniors with dementia and Parkinson’s Disease. What makes Judy a fantastic senior companion is her ability to make everyone feel comfortable and heard. This former teacher is a natural and cheerful caregiver. After caring for her own mother, Judy became a senior companion to help others in the same situation. Recently, Judy began facing serious health conditions, which sadly required her to end her volunteering with the program. Before she became ill, Judy tutored teenagers to supplement her social security and very small pension income, but she can no longer do that either. Money is extremely tight and your $150 gift would allow Judy to purchase basic needs items, which are difficult to afford these days.  

41. When Nanette, 33, lost her long-time job, she and her two children were forced to enter a shelter. This family now participates in a Catholic Charities housing program where Nanette and her children are thriving! She’s doing so well at work that Nanette was recently told to expect a promotion soon! Life is headed in a very positive direction, but the family is still struggling. Without a vehicle, much of Nanette’s income is spent on transportation expenses. Your $250 donation will go toward Uber gift cards and gifts for Nanette’s children this Christmas.   

42. Miguel, 46, worked in seasonal industries (building fences and landscaping) and was unable to continue paying rent in the off-season and lost his home. Before he arrived at Daybreak Center, Miguel had been living on the streets for several months. He’s friendly, kind, and refers to everyone as his “amigo.” Thankfully, Miguel has a home again, but he continues to struggle and comes to Shepherd’s Table for lunch each day. Your gift of $150 will be used to purchase winter clothes and work boots for Miguel to wear for his snow removal job.  

43. Sofia, 4, is from a very close-knit and supportive family. Her family has expressed that they are facing anxiety as immigrants in a community where immigrants have been targeted recently. Due to these fears, Sofia only leaves the house to go to school. A gift of $300 would provide Sofia’s family with some basic items – towels, blankets, and kitchen items. Anything extra would be used to purchase toys for Sofia at Christmas.  

44. Isabella, 31, is a single mother with three children who attends school four days per week and works full-time. On top of her busy educational and work schedules, Isabella is a fantastic and dedicated mother who stresses the importance of education to her children. Her toddler is in Head Start where she’s been identified as needing some extra help. Isabella is very invested in helping her daughter grow and thrive. She’s a strong leader for her family and is setting a great example for her children. Your $300 donation will provide clothing and blankets for Isabella’s family. It will also give Isabella the opportunity to purchase knee pads and a volleyball for her 11 year old daughter who wants to join the sport! If possible, Isabella would also like to buy a toddler bed for her daughter who is outgrowing her crib.  

45. Lucy, 29, is a single mother of four children who has faced tremendous obstacles in her life. Growing up, she lived in foster homes and state institutions – never having a place to call home. Last year, Lucy was devastated when she was forced to withdraw from a career training program because she was pregnant, which violated the program’s safety standards. She had multiple serious complications with her pregnancy, which were stressful, required many appointments, and were very expensive. Lucy’s three year old daughter lost her father earlier this year, which was heartbreaking for the family. The child began having speech development issues as she struggled with grief. Despite the challenges Lucy has faced throughout her life, her family advocate describes her as one of the most gentle, compassionate, and supportive mothers she’s met. She’s in tune with each child’s needs and ensures that they receive the support they need. A gift of $350 will purchase toys, winter gear, and a car seat for the new baby.   

46. Mia, 38, recently separated from her husband to escape domestic violence. She and her four children and staying at Daybreak Center because they cannot afford rent. Mia picks-up part-time jobs here and there, but it’s nearly impossible as a single mother with young children and no childcare options. Mia’s children are growing very fast and she would use your $350 gift to purchase clothing and shoes.  

47. Katherine, 61, is a single woman who was unable to work while she was going through cancer treatment. Shortly after completing treatment, as Katherine was starting to work again, she fractured her back due to severe osteoporosis. She won’t be able to return to work for an undetermined amount of time and is struggling to pay rent and utilities. As her back heals, Katherine is becoming isolated and lonely. A gift of $150 will provide food, clothing, gas, and activity books for Katherine, who deserves some brightness and relief this Christmas. 

48. Xavier, 33, is a single father who is experiencing homelessness with his three school-age children. Currently separated from his wife, Xavier believes that it’s best for his children to remain with him. He is working some side jobs while searching for full-time employment and is also enrolled in college working toward a business major. Xavier is learning to navigate life as a single parent and his case manager says he’s doing a great job. In fact, other parents in the shelter look up to him. The family is eager to move into their own place and stabilize their situation, but they are doing very well under the circumstances. Your gift of $300 will go toward a gas card for Xavier and Christmas gifts for the children, who are having an extremely difficult year.  

49. Brynn, 4, lives with her mom and her sister after her dad left. Her mom recently lost her full-time job, and the family is at risk of losing their home. A gift of $250 will provide winter clothing, boots, food, and cleaning supplies for this family that needs so much right now.  

50. Stefanie, 34, tries to supplement her husband’s income by selling her knitting and food. With four young children, she can’t work full-time, but has creatively found ways to make a bit of money because their family income is low. The family has been living in fear due to the current political climate. A gift of $350 will be used to purchase groceries, clothing, and household items. Stefanie has expressed that she feels terrible that her children aren’t able to attend school in clean, warm clothing, and this gift will help alleviate that situation.  

51. Brooke and her five children experienced a house fire which left them homeless a year ago. After spending several months staying in various motels, the family was able to move into an apartment in March. Brooke said that these difficult circumstances have made her feel very protective of her children. Brooke’s goal is to return to school in a few months, when her baby is a bit older. A gift of $350 will be used to purchase winter clothing and boots for this sweet family.   

52. Biancha, 20, and her children are living with her parents and siblings after leaving her abusing boyfriend. It’s a stressful environment for this young mother, but she’s doing her best. A gift of $300 will provide toys that encourage speech development, tummy time toys, winter coats, and games for the family to play together.    

53. Four years ago, Nadia, 58, moved into an apartment after experiencing homelessness. Since then, she has participated in community events to raise awareness around homelessness. She’s even taken her advocacy efforts to Springfield to speak directly to lawmakers, to urge them to support funding for housing and support services. Last year, Nadia suffered the loss of her only child to gun violence, but she continues her efforts while experiencing unimaginable grief. A gift of $150 would provide Nadia with warm winter essentials to help her stay active and healthy this winter. With anything extra, she would love to purchase some fishing gear to support her favorite pastime, which she also thinks of as a form of peace and therapy.  

54. Therese, 34, and her three children experienced homelessness after she lost her job and her landlord wouldn’t accept rent payment from a charity. This situation has been extremely difficult emotionally for Therese, who has always been the provider for her family. However, she maintains a positive attitude and is focused on moving forward. Therese is confident that once she gets a job, she will be able to get her family back on their feet and into an apartment. The children have lost many of their belongings, so your gift of $250 will provide some of the items on their Christmas wish lists, like dinosaur toys, a stuffed Care Bear, Barbies, and clothes.  

55. Victoria is a single-working mom with four children, two of whom are enrolled in Catholic Charities’ Head Start program. While working as a cashier at a gas station, Victoria suffered an injury that left her with severe hearing loss. She uses a hearing aid and is learning sign language to communicate. She also has numbness in her hands and feet, which makes it impossible to work. Despite facing debilitating health, financial, and transportation challenges, Victoria always makes sure her children are at school each day and are well cared for. She’s creative and shares money saving ideas with other Head Start parents. Your $350 donation will ensure that Victoria’s children have Christmas gifts this year.  

56. Before coming to Daybreak Center, Tanya stayed in several other shelters and moved from couch-to-couch at friends’ houses. A chronic medical condition has made it difficult to maintain employment and every day is a struggle. Tanya shared the following: “Catholic Charities has helped me with a safe place to lay my head, food to eat, a resumé professional who helps with job searches, and help with getting licenses for certain professions that will eventually help with finding work.” Tanya’s case manager describes her as an intelligent and motivated woman who continues to work hard and maintain a positive attitude. With a $150 gift, Tanya will purchase a new coat and items needed for her job search and interviews.  

57. Terrence, 56, has been in and out of shelters and has often lived on the street for many years. He has mental health and substance use struggles, which have made it difficult to stay employed and housed. Today, Terrance is sober, attending weekly counseling, and has secured a job. Catholic Charities is helping him with supportive housing. Terrance is very tall and hasn’t been able to fit into donated clothing, so your gift of $150 will help him with clothing and shoes.  

58. Octavia, 45, is a single mother of two boys (ages 10 and 12). She has a developmental disability, which has made her journey difficult. Life in a homeless shelter with two boys is challenging, but Octavia handles it well. She’s working toward getting stable housing and looks forward to a fresh start. A $250 donation will provide gifts for Octavia’s sons, who sometimes feel self-conscious about their situation and want to look/feel like the other children at school.  

59. Tina, 29, has mental health challenges that resulted in the devastating loss of her job, housing, family, and friends. She was living in her car until it broke down and was towed. That’s when Tina arrived at Daybreak Center. At first, Tina was terrified to stay in a shelter. She was very quiet and rarely spoke to other clients despite a lengthy stay. When Tina had the opportunity to enter Turning Point Permanent Supportive Housing Program with Catholic Charities, she didn’t believe she deserved the help. However, she moved into her own apartment with the program six months ago and is doing well. She‘s very resourceful and will take any clothing she is offered and then is able to sew them to fit her body and style. She’s very talented! With your $150 donation, Tanya would purchase a basket for her bike so that she can transport her groceries. Also, she misses items that make her feel beautiful – makeup, perfume, hair moisturizer, and brightly colored nail polish. She would also love twinkle lights and some decor for the walls of her apartment.  

60. Jess, 32, is a single mother who struggles to keep her children clothed and fed. When her car broke down recently, she had to work many overtime hours to pay for repairs. Jess’s two youngest children attend Catholic Charities Head Start where they have great attendance and always arrive clean and ready to learn. A gift of $350 will help Jess pay for after school extracurricular activities for her two older children. They want to be involved, but Jess hasn’t been able to afford the fees.   

61. Kai, 4, lives with his family in an apartment with no furniture. His mom recently had a baby, which has put additional financial stress on the family. Kai is also starting to experience developmental delays. A gift of $250 would help this sweet boy’s mom purchase a few small pieces of furniture for their home.  

62. Vera, 2, has been experiencing anxiety since her parents started going through a rough patch in their marriage. The toddler is receiving therapy for developmental delays. A $250 donation will ensure that Vera has a warm winter coat, hat, gloves, and some Bluey-themed Christmas gifts.   

63. Danny, 3, is often absent from Head Start often due to illness. The school suspects that the frequent illnesses are related to poor conditions within the home. His mom tries her best and works overtime to make ends meet, but Danny arrives at school in worn-out and dirty clothing. A $200 donation would provide a warm coat, hat, gloves, and some developmental toys to promote Danny’s fine motor skills.   

64. Mira is a single mother who is raising five children, the oldest of whom is only five years old. She recently lost her job, so there is no income at the house. Mira is desperately seeking a new job, but it’s nearly impossible to find work with five young children and very limited childcare options. A gift of $250 will provide basic needs items for the family plus some gifts for the children. Their favorite things to do are puzzles and coloring books!  

65. Diane has five children living in her home – spanning ages between three and 18 years old. Her two youngest boys attend Head Start and come to school wearing worn out clothing and shoes, which are too small and in poor condition. A $250 donation will provide warm coats – their current coats are NOT warm enough for winter. They also need hats and gloves, which they currently don’t have. The little boys would also love anything dinosaur-themed and they both love to build!   

66. CeCe, 40, and her four children were living in a car at this time last year. The family had lost their home when CeCe experienced serious health issues and had to quit her job. In January, the family entered Catholic Charities’ SHIFT housing program. The family is so resilient – CeCe’s 17 year old daughter is even on the honor roll and taking college courses while still in high school! A gift of $350 will help this hard-working family have the bright Christmas they deserve in their apartment. 

To make a donation, click here. If you would prefer to call in your donation, please call 815-724-1140. Thank you!