A Springville family could use a bit of help this Christmas season as they work to improve their situation.

Ally and James have recently lost their home and belongings due to legal issues, and they won’t be able to purchase Christmas gifts for their two sons this year.

“As an adult, the gifts aren’t necessarily important, but for a kid that’s everything,” Ally said.

The couple is currently in the process of fighting felony charges, going through treatment programs, as well as seeking new employment. The family lives with Ally’s father-in-law as they work to get back on their feet.

According to Ally, it’s been difficult for the couple to remain compliant with the complicated probation and court process as they search for jobs.

“It’s especially hard to balance all of those things while having kids,” Ally said.

The couple’s oldest son, age 9, needs size 16 pants and boxer shorts, as well as size 8 ½ socks. His favorite color is blue and he likes reading age-appropriate action, mystery and comedy books. He would enjoy Halo or Fortnite action figures, as well as Playstation 4 games.

The youngest son, almost 4, needs size 6 pants and underwear and size 6 shirts. His favorite color is lime green and he likes reading ABC or counting books. He would enjoy Legos or Transformers action figures.

The boys are looking forward to finishing their countdown to Christmas calendar and have had fun with their Elf on the Shelf this year, even though their mother said it has become increasingly difficult to be sneaky around them.

The family has been pleasantly surprised by the number of resources that have been available to them in Utah County. They have called Utah 211, a confidential free hotline that connects individuals to services, and they have received food from a local food bank.

“There are a lot more resources than we expected,” Ally said. “Some people aren’t aware so it’s important to be educated about these resources.”

This is James and Ally’s third year using the Sub for Santa program, and they are grateful that the program gives their children things they need, and allows them to celebrate Christmas as a family.

“It breaks our hearts to know we are struggling to even get through the day sometimes,” Ally said. “It would mean the world to us if they even received the smallest of gifts.”

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 https://subforsanta.org.

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