This year has tested our family in ways I never expected. My kids deserve to wake up on Christmas morning with something to open, and my son deserves to feel special on his birthday, which falls right before Christmas. But honestly, we're struggling. Everything costs more, and our paychecks haven't kept up. We're using a payment plan just to buy groceries, and I hate that our kids have to see us stressed about basic needs.

I'm not asking for much, just enough to give my children a Christmas and birthday that feels normal. They shouldn't have to understand adult financial stress. They should get to be kids and experience the joy of the holidays. My son shouldn't have to choose between a birthday and a Christmas gift. My other kids shouldn't wake up on December 25th with nothing under the tree.

This year has been hard, but my family is strong. With your help, we can give my kids the Christmas and birthday memories they deserve. Thank you for caring about families like ours.