WHO: Melanie (a recent widow) and her two kids, ages 14 and 16.

AGENCY: Jewish Federation of Eastern CT

THEIR SITUATION: Melanie lost her husband a year ago to a work-related accident, which reduced her household to one income. She has a 30-hour per week job, which leaves her struggling to pay her rent, electric, heating oil and cellphone bills. Even with food stamps, Melanie doesn't always have enough money for healthy food to feed two growing boys who participate in after-school sports. Since her sons, Jake and Josh, have outgrown programs that help with Christmas, she is at a loss as to how to provide them with something special this year.

WHAT TO GIVE: Gift cards to Walmart, Target, Stop & Shop or Shop-Rite will help provide Christmas items and fill the family's basic needs.

TO DONATE: Mail or drop off gift cards to JFEC, 28 Channing St., New London, CT 06320. If you don't have time to purchase a gift card, send us a check made payable to JFEC, and we will be happy to purchase it. Contact Mimi at (860) 442-8062 with any questions.