CASE 40

After raising three children of her own, Ms. O decided to become a foster parent. She volunteered because she wanted to give children with such uncertainty in their lives a place to call home. In the last five years, she has fostered nine children. She currently cares for four — two girls, ages 17 and 16, and two boys, ages 12 and 10. Because the funds Ms. O, 62, receives to provide for the children aren't a match for her rent, utilities and groceries, she would appreciate help paying for utilities and food. She also would love to be able to give her foster children Christmas gifts. She knows they would be thrilled to receive music and video game devices and the like, but even shoes, coats and simpler gifts would be immensely appreciated.

CASE 41

Ms. T believed that graduating from a medical assistant training program would put an end to — or at least a dent in — her family's daily struggles. But despite her graduation last year, she has been unable to find work in the field. She recently began working part time at a fast-food restaurant, but it doesn't provide what she needs to care for her 10-year-old daughter and two sons, ages 7 and 5. Ms. T's father had been a great help, but he recently died. And the father of Ms. T's children can't help because he's dying of cancer. Ms. T, 32, has been helping with his care. Ms. T would appreciate any help with her gas bill and rent, as well as gift cards to buy presents and other items for her three children.

Profiles by Elizabethe Holland of the Post-Dispatch.