Cases 5-8: Mom of 6 recently became blind and can't work. Family is facing eviction.

Case 5: Ms. K and her family came to America after spending most of their lives in a refugee camp in Rwanda, where they struggled without basic comforts and safety. Since arriving in America, Ms. K has worked tirelessly as a single mother to provide for her seven children and two grandchildren, but making ends meet has been an uphill battle. As the holiday season approaches, her family would be so grateful for any help, including retail and grocery gift cards, furniture, bedding, kitchenware, bus tickets, bill assistance and toys for the children.

Case 6: The May 16 tornado that ripped through the region destroyed Ms. G’s home and car, while also damaging the building that housed her hair braiding business. Thankfully, Ms. G and her 9-year-old son were able to use her renter’s insurance to find another apartment to live in, but they’re still without reliable transportation and Ms. G has struggled to find a steady income. Recently, Ms. G started taking classes at Forest Park Community College studying sonography in order to find a stable job. Ms. G and her son would appreciate any help in getting their life put back together, including money for bills, retail gift cards and help with getting a car. They could also use a microwave, kitchen items including pots, pans, dishes and silverware, cleaning supplies, a queen size bed and mattress, and a twin size bed and mattress.

Case 7: Ms. H and her husband are raising their two grandsons because their daughter struggled with postpartum depression and continues to struggle, but raising the kids is difficult with their health complications. Both have suffered strokes and have a hard time with walking. This has led to more bills that pile up. Their home is falling apart, particularly after being damaged by the May tornado. They have been on a low-income housing waiting list for years. The couple would appreciate any assistance this holiday season, including retail gift cards, small household appliances, toys, money for bills, food, clothing, cleaning supplies and toiletries. 

Case 8: Ms. B is the mother of six children, and she lost her eldest son a few years ago to gun violence. She recently became blind, and medical problems prevent her from working. The father of her children is incarcerated. Ms. B is behind on rent, faces eviction and owes more than $1,200 for electricity. The family hasn’t had a good Christmas since the death of her oldest son. They would be grateful for any assistance, including clothing, beds and bedding, help with rent and utilities, and household supplies. Her children would enjoy new basketballs, footballs, dolls and educational games.