This season, every family deserves a sense of warmth and security—but for some, these basic needs are out of reach.

This is the unimaginable struggle that families like Maria and James, along with their daughters Aaliyah and Amara, are facing today, as 1 in 4 parents struggle to pay for their family’s food or housing.¹

Now, more than ever, families in your community need your help.

Maria and James never thought they’d face the holidays without the security that their hard work has provided since starting their family 8 years ago. They’ve always worked hard to provide a stable, loving environment for their daughters, Aaliyah and Amara, but unexpected challenges have left them struggling.

Maria had to leave her job as a housekeeper due to complications during her pregnancy with their third child. And James, a retail manager, is doing everything he can to keep them going.

But it hasn’t been enough. 

Aaliyah is 8, and Amara is 6. They love reading and playing games with their friends at school, but as hard as Maria and James try to shield them from the challenges they face, they’re struggling to keep up.

“Our girls are missing so much of their childhood,” Maria shared, “We just want them to feel safe and protected.”

For families like those of Aaliyah and Amara’s, a joyful and warm holiday season feels like a distant star. But, you can help change that by providing the support they need to overcome these challenges and embrace a brighter future.

Visit our donate page to learn more about how your generosity can bring hope and stability to children and families in your community.

1. Braga, D. (2022). One-in-four U.S. parents say they’ve struggled to afford food or housing in the past year. Pew Research Center.