One real story.
One wish granted.

Luis

Fresno, CA

I've worked in the fields of the Central Valley for most of my life. My wife Rosa and I have three kids, and our youngest, Daniel, spent much of this year in and out of the hospital. He's doing better now, thank God, but the medical bills took everything we had saved. Our oldest daughter plays on her school soccer team and her cleats are worn through. The kids need warm jackets for the foggy mornings, and a slow cooker would help Rosa get dinner ready while she works her shifts. We are not used to asking for help, but we are grateful for any kindness this season.

Maria

San Antonio, TX

I'm a single mom to three amazing kids: Sofia, Mateo and little Ana. I work as a home health aide, caring for seniors in our neighborhood, and I love what I do. This year our rent went up and my car needed a new transmission, so the money I usually set aside for Christmas went to keeping us housed and getting me to work. My kids never complain, but I see Mateo wearing last year's coat with the sleeves up past his wrists. A warm coat, a bike to share, or a few books would mean the world. More than the gifts themselves, it would show my kids that strangers can be kind, and that's something I want them to carry with them.

Evelyn

Asheville, NC

I'm a retired school librarian and, for the past three years, I've been raising my granddaughter Lily. When the storm came through last fall, our little house took on water and we lost most of the downstairs, including Lily's things. Neighbors and our church have helped us rebuild, and we're so grateful. Our heat is still unreliable, and nights up here get very cold. Lily is a creative girl who draws on anything she can find. A space heater and some warm bedding would keep us comfortable this winter, and an art set would put a smile on her face. Thank you for reading our story.