Cases 45-48: Random shooting killed Ms. J's sons, 9 and 11, and injured her fiance

Case 45: After the death of her son, Ms. C stepped in to care for his five children in addition to her own three kids. She works tirelessly in health care to support them, but things took a turn earlier this year when the May tornado struck and severely damaged her home. Those costs, coupled with the rising cost of living, including utilities and groceries, are causing a strain. Ms. C would be grateful for support as she navigates these difficulties and works toward her dream of sending her youngest son to college.

Case 46: On May 24, life drastically changed for Ms. J and her family. She was leaving a party at a friend’s house with her four children and fiancé when a vehicle sped up to them and opened fire, killing her 9-year-old son and injuring her fiancé. Her 10-year-old son, who had cerebral palsy, was injured and died months later, after he turned 11 years old. It was a case of mistaken identity, and the fallout has been significant: The medical bills are piling up as her fiancé seeks follow-up care. She is trying to find part-time work while caring for her 4-year-old daughter and 8-year-old son. Ms. J and her family would be grateful for any assistance during the holiday season.

Case 47: Ms. C has her hands full caring for her four children and her father, who is battling cancer. Tragedy struck in May when a tornado severely damaged their roof. Ms. C has been trying to get it fixed, but she works for a school and so not employed during the summer months. Her bills piled up, and now, she can’t afford the $5,000 insurance deductible for roof repairs. Ms. C could use help with bills and gifts during this holiday season.

Case 48: Ms. Y, 60, has been taking care of her nephew, C, for more than four years. She was the only one who could take him in after his father’s death. C, 23, has Down syndrome and was diagnosed with leukemia before he came to live with Ms. Y. He has also struggled with depression. She is unable to work because caring for C, and keeping up with all the doctors’ appointments, is a full-time job. They could use help with household expenses and gift cards for clothing and food.

Case profiles by Katie Kull and Amy Verkamp