WHO: Maria, age 53, her grandchildren ages 17, 11, 9, 8 and 1.

AGENCY: Care and Share of East Lyme 

THEIR SITUATION: Maria works a full-time job and also cares for her five grandchildren who reside with her. Maria’s daughter is unable to care for her two children due to her battles with cancer, and Maria is helping raise her son’s three children while he is incarcerated. Additionally, Maria’s youngest sister, Angela, and her four daughters from Puerto Rico came to live with Maria because of harsh conditions on the island and significant damage to their home following the hurricane. Angela’s daughters are ages 7, 4 and 2-year-old twins.

Maria has worked steadily for eight years taking care of a local elderly woman. She is quick to say that she loves her job and this country. She also loves her family but is unable provide a holiday for them with her limited resources.

WHAT TO GIVE: Gift cards to Walmart, Shop Rite and Target to purchase food, clothing and gasoline would be appreciated. The family needs diapers and wipes for three children. They enjoy time together and gift cards for a meal at Olive Garden or Plum Tomato in Salem would be welcome. Also, gift cards to the Waterford or Niantic Theater, the Mystic Aquarium or Mystic Seaport would be appreciated.

TO DONATE: Make checks to payable to Care and Share and mark them “Make A Difference,” and send to Care and Share of East Lyme, Attn: Gayle Booth, Box 114, East Lyme, CT 06333, or call (860) 739-8502.