Utah often touts itself as a state that encourages entrepreneurship and small business startups, but having such autonomy comes with costly obstacles.

Janine and Marcus had dreams of starting a business together, and while the married couple achieved that goal, they’re now faced with the realization of trying to keep the establishment afloat while making sure their family’s finances aren’t suffering.

“Our business isn’t bringing in very much income, just enough to cover basic needs like rent, utilities and basic food supplies,” Janine wrote in a Sub for Santa application.

Keeping up with the necessities for their home is creating a grim picture for Christmas. And now with the holiday just a few away, the couple worries their three children will wake up without any gifts to open Christmas morning.

“We have run through our savings and are starting to accrue debt and will not be able to afford Christmas this year,” Janine said.

The couple has three girls, all ages 5 and under, who are in need of apparel items such as pants, shoes and warm jackets for the cold winter months.

Janine said the girls also are hoping to get various dolls, stuffed animals and wooden puzzles.

Her oldest daughter is a big fan of “Paw Patrol” and is asking for new collectables.

Each child also would like new picture books and coloring books.

The United Way of Utah County reportedly is seeing an uptick in families who it says need help this year, citing various reasons. As the holiday quickly approaches, the nonprofit is leaning on the help of community members to sponsor a family or through donations.

As of Thursday afternoon, more than 110 families were still in need of assistance.

Those with the means to assist in spreading Christmas cheer, can visit subforsanta.org.