CASE 86

When Mr. and Mrs. P's son was born blind, Mrs. P could not handle the situation and turned the baby over to the Division of Family Services. Mr. P was outraged. He couldn't concentrate at work and lost his job. He and his wife divorced. It took him three years and a lot of hard work and determination to get his son back. Now a single dad, P works part time while seeking a full-time job. He and his son could use clothing, shoes, bedding, coats, school supplies and household items. P also would like a full size bed. The family would consider any help a blessing.

CASE 87

S, a mother of five children, ages 1 to 12, has no income. She is going back to school to get her GED. She lives in public housing and pays no rent but must keep up with the utilities, which is difficult when the stipend does not cover the costs. With cold weather on the way and her bills rising, S, 31, worries about keeping the family warm — and keeping the power on. She gets no financial help from the children's fathers. The family needs disposable diapers, clothing, household items, linens, beds and help with utility payments. Any aid will be appreciated.

CASE 88

Every day is a day of survival for P, a single mother, and her adult son, who suffers from paranoid schizophrenia. P, 52, has undergone multiple surgeries on both of her hands and is unable to lift anything over 5 pounds. She also was in a serious car accident. She underwent recent back surgery for a painful herniated disc. P has enrolled at a junior college in a business management program to prepare her for a new job. Her son, 26, works hard in his life skill training class at MERS Goodwill, where he works 12 hours a week. Mother and son would be grateful for any assistance you can give them to brighten their holiday season.

Profiles by Jean Buchanan and Margaret Gillerman, of the Post-Dispatch.