Making Spirits Bright

Christmas is typically a time of great joy and family celebration. Yet for Erica, a young mother of three small children, the holiday season was overcast by a sense of dread and the harsh reality of poverty settling in.

Seasonal questions turned from, “When will I find time to go shopping?” to “How will I afford our utilities this month?” Despite balancing two jobs, Erica knew she could not afford to pay her utility bill or give her children the Christmas they deserved.

When the family’s utilities were shut off, Erica turned to The Salvation Army, desperate for help.

The caring staff facilitated temporary shelter, but the support didn’t end there.

The Salvation Army helped restore the utilities in Erica’s home just in time for her family to return on Christmas Day, and also provided toys and gifts for her children. Erica has said that the greatest blessing was watching her children’s faces light up as they opened Christmas presents they did not think they would be receiving.

Teary-eyed and full of gratitude, Erica has expressed deep thanks and gratitude that her family Christmas miracle was made possible.