Editor’s note: All names of Sub for Santa participants have been changed. To help a family like this one, call the Sub for Santa hotline at 801-356-6300 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or visit unitedwayuc.org/get-involved/sub-for-santa/.

For Sean and Isabelle, the past few months have been difficult. They are hoping to still provide a nice Christmas for their two children despite the challenges they are facing. “This year has been especially challenging for our family, and receiving Christmas assistance from Sub for Santa would make a world of difference,” Isabelle said.

In September, Isabelle lost her full-time job and has been working part-time since then to help make ends meet. Her husband, Sean, recently received notice that the company he works for would be closing all of its locations nationwide as of the end of November. He has been looking for a different job but has not yet found one.

The couple has two teenage children who have been very understanding about the family’s challenges. “They rarely ask for anything, but we would love to make this Christmas special for them, especially since it will likely be our daughter’s last Christmas at home before she heads off to college after this school year,” Isabelle said.

Seventeen-year-old Hailey could use a winter coat, boots and snow pants. She loves anything basketball-related and her favorite colors are baby blue and yellow. Max, 13, is also in need of a winter coat, boots and snow pants. He enjoys advanced building sets and boxing or workout gear. His favorite color is red. The volunteer gift-givers who are matched with this family could help provide these items or others for the two kids.

“Right now, we’re barely able to cover our regular bills and have no extra funds to put toward holiday gifts or celebrations. Receiving assistance from Sub for Santa would give us the opportunity to provide some joy and holiday cheer for our kids during a time when it feels like so much is uncertain,” Isabelle said. “We would be deeply grateful for the support, and it would truly mean everything to our family during this difficult season.”