Day 2: Help out a mom and baby, woman with cancer | Christmas Connection 2023

Over the next two weeks, the Tallahassee Democrat is partnering with Catholic Charities on the Christmas Connection to spotlight local families who need help this Christmas. Donations will be taken Nov. 26-Dec. 17. Here's how you can help.

CASE # 18: Single mom with baby girl

PERSONAL DETAIL

This single mother with a baby girl has never had a stable household. She is now living with an uncle but has submitted several housing applications, awaiting responses. This mother would love to start new traditions and have a different life with her baby. It would put a big smile on her face to see her baby happy on Christmas morning.

CRITICAL ITEMS

Towels, blanket (1 full/queen), heater, trash can, can opener, cleaning supplies, mop and bucket, bug spray, groceries, gift card or gas and clothing, blankets, diapers (size 6)

FAMILY MEMBERS

Mother, Age 23

Suggested gifts: Queen comforter and sheets, kitchenware, crockpot, body spray and lotion, gift card for clothing

Daughter, Age 8 months

Suggested gifts: Cartoon baby blanket and bedding, riding/push toy, learning toys like blocks, baby wash and lotion

CASE # 32: Woman with colon cancer

PERSONAL DETAILS

This woman has colon cancer and other health issues and has been receiving chemo treatment for a year. She has a small dog for companionship. She has no transportation and uses public transportation for doctors’ appointments.

CRITICAL ITEMS

Full/queen blanket, food, toiletries, cleaning supplies, dry dog food

FAMILY MEMBER

Woman, Age 62

Suggested gifts: Kitchenware, pots and pans, queen sheets and blanket

How to help

Donate in person: Drop off donated items at the Christmas Connection site at 309 South Bronough Street (corner of Bronough and Pensacola, bottom level of Kleman Plaza). The site is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1-5 p.m. on Sundays. Days of operation are Nov. 26-Dec. 17. Deadline for donated items is Dec. 11.

Wish List: Shop early and shop easy with the Christmas Connection Amazon wish list. You can view the wish list at the website TheChristmasConnection.org.

Blanket Days: Drop off new blankets and heaters from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 and Sunday, Dec. 10, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the 309 South Bronough location. A volunteer will help you unload your car.

Donate online or by mail: Make a monetary donation online at TheChristmasConnection.org or send a check to Christmas Connection, P.O. Box 20165, Tallahassee, FL 32316.

Adopt a family: Complete a brief request form on the website and a family in need will be assigned to you by the volunteer adoption coordinator. All families are referred to us from social service organizations in the Big Bend area.

Host a Christmas Connection collection drive or holiday party: Gather people from your office, school, church, sports team, family or friends and host a party or collection drive. Sign up online on the website and then collect gift items, gift cards and/or monetary donations, which can be brought to the collection site.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Day 2: Brighten holiday for mom and baby | Christmas Connection 2023