Sarah has four children, two boys and two girls. Her sons are autistic. Raising them is a challenge, but it’s also a joy. They make Sarah appreciate every single moment, every little action in their lives.
Unfortunately, Sarah and her family have been forced to start over.
They were homeless for several months until a local church took them under its wing. They’re now off the streets and living in a safe place, with donated furniture and other necessary items, including school supplies.
Sarah ended up in this position in part because of a landlord who refused to make necessary repairs to the plumbing and roof. Inspectors looked at the living conditions and gave the place a flunking grade. So the family was out — and, in the process, they almost lost all of their possessions.
But the worst loss was the family’s therapy cats. Sarah’s sons loved them, as the cats helped them deal with their autism. She said they weren’t just pets — they were loving members of the family.
Sarah isn’t getting child support, and her only money comes from limited benefits. It’s barely enough to cover basic expenses.
To make matters worse, their car broke down.
Sarah is thankful her children have a roof over their heads, but she would like them to smile on Christmas. That’s a tall order given her circumstances.
The Empty Stocking Fund helps lift the spirits of children who may not have a joyous holiday season. Contributions will be acknowledged in the manner requested by donors.
CONTRIBUTORS
For Brandon & Alexi Turner: $100
Greg, Leigh Ann & Nicholas Sedlock: $100
In loving memory of Pat Little (Gruffus): $200
In honor of my friendship with Brenda Wadley from Paulina Smith: $50
Anonymous: $300
Anonymous: $200
Lisbeth & Douglas Thom: $100
In memory of Thomas R. White by Hazel Brown: $50
The Perry’s Grands & Great-grandchildren: $100
Anonymous: $50
David Coleman: $50
Celia Cerbone: $25
Bruce & Diantha Barstow: $100
Kent & Elizabeth Urness: $100
Jerome Crumley: $100
In memory of Bee & Mac, Glenn & Ernest: $100
Catherine & James Morris: $100
Simon & Mary Ellen Cols: $100
In honor of our newly adopted granddaughter, Katherine: $50
In memory of Ernst Smith: $100
Thomas & Anne Schafer: $100
In memory of Resa, Nana, Uncle Bubber & Sonny: $50
Bonnie Lee Gordon: $100
Alex & Will Ella Anderson: $25
Anonymous: $100
Bette & Donna: $100
Citizens of Georgia Power, Savannah Chapter: $125
Carol C. Haussler in memory of my dear husband, Fred: $50
Greg & Elaine Witbeck: $100
Today’s total: $2,825
Total to date: $39,252.62
HOW TO HELP
Make checks payable to Empty Stocking Fund and mail to the Savannah Morning News, P.O. Box 1088, Savannah, GA 31402-1088. Only monetary gifts can be accepted. Or donate at savannahnow.com/emptystocking.