News

Family gets help stretching grocery budget

By Jonathan Phelps
Correspondent
Published: December 3, 2008

John recently lost his job, but he still has a wife and three children to take care of during these cold winter months.

His wife, Elizabeth, has been unable to work due to illness and is not eligible for disability payments. So far, they have been able to keep up with the bills, but after paying their rent and utilities they only have $100 a month for food.

For a family of five, $100 in groceries doesn't go far. So, John and Elizabeth went to the Salvation Army for help. They receive food from the food pantry once a month, which really helps out the family until John, who's now working part time, can find another full-time job.

Many people need help this year: those who are out of work, parents who are ill or have a sick child, or single parents struggling to pay rent, utilities and other necessities.

Hardships and just making ends meet may mean no extra money for gifts or a holiday meal.

The Salvation Army and the Salem News Holiday Fund work together to help those who need a little something extra to get their lives going again, especially around the holidays when families gather. Donations go a long way to help neighbors get going again.

Want to help?

To contribute, send checks payable to The Salvation Army Holiday Fund to 32 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA 01915. Contributions will be recorded and recognized in the newspaper in your name, or as indicated on your enclosed check. If you wish, you may list an additional family member, school, group or corporation, or designate your gift as a memorial (please specify).

If you know of anyone who needs assistance, write to the Salvation Army Holiday Fund at the address listed above.

Do you need help?

To receive assistance, contact the Salvation Army at the following locations:

Beverly, 50 Elliott St., 978-922-4522

Salem, 93 North St., 978-744-5181

Newburyport, 40 Water St., 978-465-0883, ext. 10