CASE 83

M is a battered and abused pregnant single mother with four children and a fifth on the way. M, who is 28, lost her apartment and now lives with her children in a shelter for abused women and children. Her children suffered from mental abuse from the same man who physically abused her. M is going through counseling to help heal the scars and become strong for her children. She wants to find a home for her children. She has two daughters, ages 1 and 12, and two sons, 11 and 15. She would appreciate holiday assistance so her children can celebrate Christmas and any other help so her family can finally heal.

CASE 84

Cheyenne's family is still reeling from the 2007 auto accident that left her permanently challenged by traumatic brain injury and seizures. Each month, her mother balances the special needs of Cheyenne, 8, with the expenses required to also support her two brothers, ages 2 and 5. On a fixed income, it is never easy. To make life a little easier this Christmas, Cheyenne and her family are seeking clothing, a vacuum cleaner, assistance with utility bills and a dryer.

CASE 85

V, 62, suffered from polio as a child and has trouble walking. That hasn't kept him from leading a full life and from using his talent as a singer to cheer others. Earlier this year, he and his wife lost almost everything when a tornado destroyed their house and everything in it. They're on fixed incomes, and it's been hard for them to pull things back together. They need help with bills, furniture, dishes, towels and sheets. A comfy sofa would be particularly welcome.

Profiles by Margaret Gillerman, Steve Giegerich and Sarah Bryan Miller, of the Post-Dispatch.