A family in Cumberland County has suddenly found itself unable to cover expenses or pay bills. And with Christmas coming and an expectant 5-year-old boy at home, they sent a letter this month to the Portland Press Herald Toy Fund.
“Usually we are the ones to donate, but this year has been very hard on us. I am a registered nurse. I injured my back in April. I’ve been out of work ever since and I’m still not receiving any workers’ compensation or disability payments due to red tape and how long it takes to get a hearing,” the mother wrote.
“My domestic partner lost his primary job at the same time due to financial difficulties at the company where he worked for 15 years. … He was out of work for six months until he found the job he just recently started. We are very behind on bills, recently got a (electricity) disconnection notice and can’t afford oil.”
And, not only are her unpaid medical bills piling up, the family’s dog also recently needed costly medical treatment. The combination of all of the financial challenges are threatening to wipe out Christmas for their 5-year-old son, she wrote.
“If you could help us provide him with a little Christmas magic this year, we would be forever grateful. We hope to be healthier and in a better financial position next year in order to pay it forward. We thank you with all of our hearts.”
The Portland Press Herald Toy Fund in the Spirit of Bruce Roberts is using donations from readers to provide toys to thousands of Maine children who might otherwise not receive holiday gifts because of hardships faced by their parents.
The fund – now in its 67th year – is accepting applications for toys from needy families in Cumberland, York, Sagadahoc, Lincoln and Knox counties.
Applications can be downloaded at pressheraldtoyfund.org.
Call 791-6672 to have one mailed to you.
Donations to help buy the toys can be made on the website or by writing checks to the Portland Press Herald Toy Fund and mailing them to the fund at P.O. Box 7310, Portland, ME 04112.
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