VALLEY SANTA: Families struggling during pandemic ask for help

Nov. 19--Linda, a single mother, said her 4-year-old son Patrick often gets sick and she constantly takes him to doctors.

Since his school shut down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, she said he has gotten sick less but he struggles with other issues.

"He's usually a very happy child but lately he's been sad," Linda wrote in a letter to Valley Santa. "With the pandemic we are in, everything is harder."

Linda asked for Valley Santa's help in providing a Christmas present for her son.

Her letter was one of many sent to Valley Santa and many cited struggles related to the pandemic. According to several letters from families, only one parent is working and the other is staying home to assist children with virtual education. Some parents are unemployed and others are working fewer hours.

In one letter, local social worker Danielle asked for help for a father who was injured and hasn't been working for months due to his injuries.

"The family is home with the children as well as grandchildren due to child care and school closures due to COVID-19," Danielle wrote. "The family would be appreciative of any help available during these trying times."

Contact the writer:

dallabaugh@citizensvoice.com, 570-821-2115, @CVAllabaugh

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