WHO: Anna, 39; sons Elijah, 8 months, and Kean, 17; daughters Aviana, 4, and Mariah, 13  

AGENCY: Riverfront Children's Center

HER SITUATION: Anna started out as a young mother facing major difficulties that included addiction (causing her to receive help from state and social services) and later homelessness. Despite all the challenges she has faced, Anna now has a full-time job in the service industry, an apartment and all her children back living with her. However, since she does not have transportation, she walks the children to child care and then depending on her work schedule, she either walks, takes the bus or sometimes she must call a cab. Anna's next goal is saving enough money to afford to purchase a used vehicle, which will allow her to expand her job opportunities. Despite all the challenges that Anna and her family have faced, she remains optimistic that she will succeed in providing a good life for her children.

WHAT TO GIVE: Clothing (boys 24 months/2 toddler, girl 5 toddler, juniors medium tops or 5/7 pants,  men's XXL shirts and 34/34 pants), winter boots (women's 8.5), age-appropriate toys for younger children, gift cards (groceries, Walmart or Target).

TO DONATE: Call Kimberly Dole, Riverfront executive director, at (860) 445-8151.