Medical bills and a slowdown at work are making this Christmas a stressful time for Betsy and Franklin and their five children. Getting help from kind donors with the Sub for Santa program could relieve much of the stress and help the family have a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday.

Betsy said Franklin has worked both a full-time job and a part-time job for about four years to be able to sustain their family. However, for the past two years, his part-time sales job has slowed down, with less income and less predictability. Because of this, they have been struggling financially, barely able to pay their bills. At times, they have simply been unable to pay some of them.

Betsy is a stay-at-home mom, with some of the children not yet in school. Their 6-year-old child recently had to have medically necessary tonsil removal surgery. Medical bills from this procedure are adding more financial stress to the parents. “This year has been one of the hardest years we have had, financially,” Betsy said. “My husband has been asking his work for overtime to cover our bills and it’s still not enough.”

The five children range in age from 4 to 12. They are all in need of coats, shirts and other clothing items. They enjoy a variety of activities, including crafts, card games, reading, toy cars, board games, Legos and other toys. The donors that have been matched up with this family will have the opportunity to give the children both needed and fun items.

“Our kids would be very happy to have gifts for Christmas this year,” Betsy said.

United Way of Utah County invites all to get involved this holiday season. If you would like to be part of this annual holiday initiative and help bring the Christmas spirit to those in need, visit subforsanta.org.