Please show your support by reading through their stories and finding someone to help. A contact name is provided for each request. The Journal Star will print a story on Thanksgiving Day to let readers know the response and whether there are still unmet needs.

Following is a complete list of agency requests.

1. The father of a family of six has been laid off, financially strapping their family. Mom is working two jobs to meet the basic needs. They are in need of a washer and dryer. Also, two of the children share a single bed, so a bunk bed would be nice for the boys. Contact Lynn at the Lincoln Lancaster Health Department, 441-6704.

2. A family who has a child with severe developmental and medical issues needs to transport him to Omaha on a routine basis for medical appointments and hospitalizations. Their van needs new brakes and an axle replaced, and are unable to pay for repairs. They are also in need of some furniture for their home, such as a kitchen table, chairs for their living room, and end tables. Contact Jeri Swagger, Early Development Services Coordinator at JSwagger@ci.lincoln.ne.us or call 441-6196.

3. Lila is a struggling mom of four children. She would like a basketball hoop for her 12 and 13 year olds, or gift certificates to buy winter clothing and coats. If you can help, please contact Zaina at Faces of the Middle East, 474-6223.

4. The Al Sary family are refugees who relocated to Lincoln. Mom is disabled and Dad is working full time, but they still can’t afford to buy some furniture they need for their home, such as a crib, dressers, area rugs or dining room furniture. Call Zaina at Faces of the Middle East at 474-6223.

5. Lori works with at risk children, ages 13-18, many with mental illness and behavioral issues. Recreational items needed include gently used equipment such as exercise bikes, foosball or bumper pool tables, hockey sticks, or arts and crafts materials. Contact Lori at the Regional Center, 471-6944.

6. At Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach, homeless and low-income adults and families receive nutritious meals, social support and acceptance, unconditionally.  The majority of guests are living on an extremely limited income or are unable to earn an income, due to their unique challenges. Some of the requests that we are not able to fill are: gift cards for gasoline, telephone, or discount stores; gift certificates to see a movie, visit the zoo, or the Children’s Museum. Many of the guests we serve will spend a period of time outside in winter conditions. We would like your help providing them with winter hats, gloves, undergarments, or even a change of socks. If you are willing to donate any of these items, please call Ann Heydt at 477-4116.

7. Lily is a single mom of five boys and one daughter. Dad was killed in Afghanistan and the family fled to the United States and has now settled in Lincoln. Recently Mom’s health has kept her down and limited her activities with her children. She is under a doctor’s care but is limited with what she can do at home as well as trying to work to keep the family going. Gift certificates to Wal-Mart, Super Saver, and for a special “treat”, to family restaurants, would be greatly appreciated.  With six growing children, they are always in need of shoes and coats. Please call Shawn at Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters, 464-2227.

8. A grandmother who only receives disability, and who is raising her granddaughter by herself, is looking for a good-working sewing machine so that she can extend the wearing of her granddaughter’s clothing. If you can help with this, please contact Sara at Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters, 464-2227.

9. Steve and Amy are currently living at the City Mission waiting for a bigger house for their family of 12. When their house becomes available they will need all the furnishings for their new home. They will need new pillows and bedding for twin and double beds. The family is also of need of bathroom towels and small kitchen appliances. Gift Certificates to Wal-Mart and Target would be greatly appreciated. To help this family get on their feet, please call Dana at Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters, 464-2227.

10. Donna is a mother of 12-year-old Abbey, and 18-year-old Seth. Donna has a health condition that leaves her unable to work; she is missing vertebrae in her back and neck. She has been without a job for a long time because of her condition. Their phone is now disconnected, and were forced to move. Starting next year they will lose their Medicaid. Seth is a senior in high school, gets good grades, and would love to attend college. Abbey just switched middle schools and is trying to make new friends. Please help this family stay warm this winter by supplying them with coats, gloves, hats, and gift certificates for groceries. Call Whitney at Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters, 464-2227.

11. Mark is a single father of two children who love sports. Although Mark works full time he makes only enough for the family’s necessities. Rusty, 12, would really like to join a baseball team but the family cannot afford the added expense. Annie is 8, loves softball, and would love to have a softball and glove. Everyone in the family could use winter coats and gloves, as well as blankets for their bedrooms. Mark’s family would greatly benefit from a donation of gift cards to Steve & Barry’s, the grocery store or a discount store. Any gift that could help this family would be greatly appreciated. Please call Samia at Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters, 464-2227.

12. Michael emigrated to America with his wife and two children, Daniel (4) and Eric (3) nearly three years ago. Shortly after arriving in America, his wife left home because she made life plans that did not include her family. This left Michael to care for his family alone. He has struggled since being laid off from employment. Michael and his children sought shelter at the City Mission after being evicted from their home. After staying at the mission for three months, Michael found another job and was able to rent an apartment, although they have very little. Michael is a very good father, and has said his only concern is to see his children grow and be together always. The items in their apartment consist of beds for the children and a television. Michael needs a bed for himself, a dining table, and a couch. To help Michael and his children, please contact Adriana at Lincoln Action Program, 471-4515 ext. 265.

13. Elaine is a single mother of three children, Scott (4), Colette (2 ½), and Joey (5 months). Joey has battled many medical tribulations since birth, and will soon require surgery on his skull and eyes this winter. Elaine needs help with food and transportation costs to get herself and her children back and forth from Lincoln to Omaha during these critical procedures. To provide Elaine and her family with gift cards for gas and food, please call Dawn at Lincoln Action Program, 471-4515 ext. 269.

14. Janet is a single, unemployed mother with six children, two of which are her own. The youngest four children are her nieces and nephews who barely escaped the disaster of Hurricane Katrina. Just recently, Janet’s vehicle was totaled in an accident, and she is now using a church’s van for temporary transportation. Due to her growing family, Janet plans to move into a larger home in December. Janet and the children are in need of deposit money, beds, bedding, and a means of transportation. To help this family, please contact Mary at Lincoln Action Program, 471-4515, ext. 295.

15. Sadie, a widow and mother of 11 children, fled her war-torn county of Sudan 10 years ago. Currently, her household consists of herself, three children, and two grandchildren. Sadie suffers from heart problems, diabetes, and recently had a blood clot in her brain removed. While her health problems are a large obstacle to finding work, a greater barrier is her lack of transportation. Her vehicle is in need of repairs, including a new transmission and body repairs. To help Sadie, please call Hilary at Lincoln Action Program, 471-4515, ext. 210.

16. Lilia and her family are new to this country. She is a single mother of three children (ages 1, 3, and 4). Lilia’s constant struggle with depression and mental illness has made employment very difficult. Their apartment is near empty and her children have very few clothes. Lilia and her children need household appliances, furniture (a sofa or couch), blankets, twin bedding, bed frames, and children’s clothing (sizes 18 months, 3 Toddler, and 5 Toddler). To help this family, please contact Samia at Lincoln Action Program, 471-4515, ext. 267.

17. Sue and her two grandchildren have endured many setbacks, the most recent being a house fire that destroyed almost all of the family’s belongings. Although they have moved into a new home, they are still in need of many household items. Sue is the sole provider for her two grandchildren, Karen (17) and Nate (19). They would benefit from warm clothing, such as sweaters, winter coats, mittens, hats, scarves, and shoes. To help this family, please call Chanae at Lincoln Action Program, 471-4515, ext. 205.

18. Stephanie is a St. Monica’s graduate, who just regained custody of her four children, a 2-year-old girl, and three boys; ages 6, 7 and 9. Stephanie makes $6.50 an hour working at a fast food restaurant. At this wage she struggles to get monthly bills paid. Stephanie could use help with gift certificates to a shoe store or dept store, to purchase new shoes for her children. She would also benefit from movie passes or gift certificates to a bowling alley. If you would like to help Stephanie, or another St. Monica’s graduate, please contact Michelle Engel, 434-2815.

19. Miranda and her two teen-age daughters live in transitional housing after being homeless due to domestic violence. Miranda is currently seeking employment. She has need of household supplies like kitchen ware and small appliances. She and her family could use help with basic hygiene supplies like shampoo, soap, and feminine products. She also needs linens for twin and full sized beds, and towels for kitchen and bath. She also needs warm hats and gloves for herself and her daughters. To donate these items or gifts cards, please call Michelle Engel, 434-2815.

20. Renee is an outpatient client of St. Monica’s who is going to give birth during the Holiday season. Renee would be most grateful to receive baby care items, diapers, bath items, and infant clothes. To help Renee please call Michelle Engel 434-2815.

21. Tina is a single mother of Jack (3) and is expecting a girl in March. Tina is temporarily disabled due to a difficult pregnancy and is unable to work at this time. She has overcome mental health problems and has been clean and sober for four years. She needs household items like bed sheets and towels, items for her new baby, and clothes and shoes for her and Jack. If you would like to donate gift cards for Tina, please contact Nisha at CenterPointe (402) 475-5161.

 22. Penny is a single mother raising her grandson Tom (13). Penny is disabled and had to move into an unfurnished apartment from a furnished one. She was able to afford to get some furniture, but still needs a bed for her grandson. Penny also needs clothes and shoes for herself and Tom. If you can donate gift cards for Penny, please contact Nisha at CenterPointe, 475-5161.

23. Mary is a single mother of two and foster parent to three others (ages 1-16). Mary has overcome mental health problems and has been clean and sober for a year. Mary is a stay at home mom and needs help buying Christmas gifts for her children. If you can donate gift cards for Mary, please contact Nisha at CenterPointe, 475-5161.

24. Veronica is a single mother of three (13, 14, and 15). Veronica is working toward getting her children all returned to Lincoln. She has already got one son moved to Lincoln, her daughter moved to Omaha, and has one son in Arizona yet. Veronica needs help getting Christmas gifts for all three of her children. If you can donate gift cards for Mary, please contact Nisha at CenterPointe (402) 475-5161.

 25. John is a homeless individual who has been placed in transitional housing until he can find affordable, permanent housing. He is learning the independent living skills necessary to become self-sufficient. He has limited resources at this time, and is in need of basic household items such as, cleaning supplies, kitchen supplies, small appliances, and linens. If you can donate these items or gift cards to purchase these, please contact Amy or Matt at CenterPointe, 475-5161.

26. Jean and her six children and two grandchildren moved from New York to Lincoln in April after her husband died. Her children are ages 8, 11, 14, 16, 17 and 25. There are also two grandchildren ages one and two years. This family moved here with nothing, and has acquired furniture and supplies through garbage piles. Jean tries to do some in-home daycare to supplement the social security from her husband’s death. This family could use any furniture or supplies available — couch, table and chairs, beds, towels, drying rack for dishes, etc. Jean has said she would appreciate anything, most importantly winter jackets for the kids. Jean was hesitant to ask for a blender or pots and pans to cook but could use those also. Please call Angela Gebhardt at Clinton Elementary School, 436-1132 for sizes or any possible donations. Thank you!

27. Tina & John moved to Lincoln from Denver with their 3 children: James (11), Leslie (5), and Carrie (3), after a crisis required them to be closer to family. Both had good jobs in Denver but John is currently the only one that has found work, and will be off without pay for 2 weeks during Christmas. They had to move here without their supplies and are currently learning how to use state aid, as neither of them had used this in the past. Tina has stated she could use two single beds and sheets for her children, dressers, and four chairs for a table they’ve acquired. She is also in need of a lamp, towels and anything to cover her widows. The children do have winter jackets but could use jeans and sweaters. The kids could also use a boom box/radio to listen to music. Tina stated she’d be grateful for anything to help their family. If you could help, please call Angela Gebhardt at Clinton Elementary School, 436-1132.

28. Linda and Joe have four children; Crystal (6), Monica (2), Thomas (1), and Kristina (4 months). Linda and Joe are trying to get back on track after having to move out of an unsafe neighborhood where her checkbook has been stolen and caused financial hardship. Joe is working full-time and both are trying to recover monetarily to provide for their children. This family could use a vacuum cleaner, single beds for the girls, a table, and pots and pans. They are also in need of winter jackets, clothing, and any help with baby supplies would be appreciated. If you can assist with any of these items, please call Angela Gebhardt at Clinton Elementary School, 436-1132.

29. Monica and Robert have 10 children and are trying to make ends meet to support their household. Robert works full-time and Monica does in-home daycare to bring in a little extra money. This family is doing well providing basic needs for the children, but their house is in need of some supplies. The family could use some bed sheets (all sizes) for the mattresses they have, and could use some pillows as well. They are in need of a working vacuum cleaner, towels, silverware, and bowls for meals. Plastic containers would be helpful for their storage. Monica could also use some better cookware, as she makes meals for many children. Robert mentioned he has one pair of shoes for both work and daily wear and all of the children could use jeans/pants. If there is any assistance you can give, please contact Angela Gebhardt at Clinton Elementary School, 436-1132.

30. Jordan and her mom, Julie, came to Friendship Home a few weeks ago after Julie was beaten by her partner. It has been a difficult adjustment for both mother and daughter, but Jordan is having an especially hard time. Her 13th birthday is coming up, and because she and her mom are living in the shelter, she can no longer have the slumber party she had planned. Julie would love to get Jordan something special to make her birthday a good one. If you can donate a gift certificate to Gateway Mall or South Pointe Pavilion so Julie can go shopping for Jordan’s birthday, please call Friendship Home at 434-0163.

31. Rose moved to Lincoln from her home state with her children: Marcus (17), Aleasha (15), and David (12). It is very important to Rose that her children be active in school activities, and she does her best driving them back and forth to their various practices, club meetings, and events. However, keeping her tank full of gas is rapidly eating into her limited budget. If you can help Rose and her children by donating gasoline certificates or StarTran bus passes please contact Friendship Home at 434-0163.

32. Jennifer and her daughters Morgan (9), and Mariah (6), have been living at Friendship Home for the past six weeks to stay safe from Morgan and Mariah’s dad, who has abused Jennifer for the majority of their relationship. Jennifer has saved enough money, and soon she and her children will be moving into their own apartment. Jennifer would like her daughter’s new rooms to be special and wants to get them each new comforters and decorations that they would like. If you can help Jennifer by donating gift cards to stores like Target or Walmart please contact Friendship Home at 434-0163.

33. Maria lost her job after her abusive boyfriend continually harassed her at work. She has worked very hard at lining up some job interviews, but would like to look her best and is in need of a new outfit suitable for the occasion. If you can help Maria by donating gift cards to stores like Kohls or JC Penney please call Friendship Home at 434-0163.

34. Caleb is a student in college and has decided to volunteer his time as a match to 11 year-old Mitchell, who now lives at Friendship Home since his mom fled her abusive relationship. Caleb and Mitchell spend time every week playing basketball, board games, and talking. Mitchell’s mom appreciates the good example Caleb provides for her son, and she has noticed improvement in Mitchell’s grades at school since Caleb has begun spending time with him. Caleb and Mitchell would love to be able to see a movie together. If you would like to donate movie passes for Caleb and Mitchell, please call Friendship Home at 434-0163.

36.  Marilyn is a single mother that just started self-employment and is attending a graduate program full-time. She has a hard time making enough money to keep groceries in the house and to keep utilities paid. Gift cards for a grocery store or utility bills would be helpful. There are two sons: Joseph is six years old and Miles is four years old. The boys can use clothes ranging in sizes 6, 7, and 8. The boys also would like snowboards and sleds or saucers. Joseph is getting extra help in school with reading so any extra books or talking books would be helpful for him. Marilyn could use computer ink for her class as well as pots and pans. Please contact Dayna Krannawitter at 432-9725.

37. Steve and Katie are hard-working parents who both work full-time jobs but don’t always bring in enough money to take care of all the needs of Mark, a 6th-grader, Scott, a 5th grader, and Carrie, a 3rd grader. Steve says their biggest need is keeping up with clothes, especially socks, underwear, t-shirts, and sweatshirts, as well as winter clothes such as hats and gloves. He adds that a couple of small games and books for the kids would be nice too. Please contact Dayna Krannawitter at 432-9725.

 

38. Standing on their sidewalk in the cold, a family watches as their home is engulfed in flames. Beyond the initial feelings of shock and relief that everyone made it out okay, they don’t know what they are going to do. Where will they stay? Where will they get food and clothing? You can help. To volunteer, contact Pam at the Lancaster County Chapter of the American Red Cross at 441-7997.

39. Over 350 service members from Lancaster County-based military units are currently deployed in Iraq or Afghanistan. Approximately 30 percent of those service members saw their monthly income decrease upon mobilization. The American Red Cross assists these individuals and families in many ways. To donate phone cards of any value to the American Red Cross, please contact Eric at 441-7997, or mail to American Red Cross, PO Box 83267, Lincoln, NE 68501-3267, Attn: Military Services.

40. Tracy made the courageous decision to flee her abusive husband, leaving behind friends and her family in a far away state. She has found safety here in Lincoln. She is homesick and is desperately wanting to let friends and family know she is out of danger and doing well. To donate long distance phone cards, please contact Fresh Start Home at 475-7777.

41. Fresh Start Home hopes you can make their holiday wish of “silent nights” come true by donating twin size flat and fitted sheets. These sheets will ensure the women coming to our home are safe, warm, and comfortable. Fresh Start will need 46 sets of extra long twin sheets for women when we move into our new home. Please contact a team member at 475-7777 to make this wish come true.

42. Joyce is one of sixty women who call Fresh Start their home each year. She has successfully completed classes and is now looking for a job in health care. Once she is employed, she can regain custody of her daughters. A subscription to the Journal Star it would help her look for a job, learn about activities for her family, keep her caught up on current events, and eventually look for an apartment. Consider helping Joyce and those working as hard as her by donating an annual subscription. Call Fresh Start Home at 475-7777 to deliver the good news of your generosity.

43. Betty recently moved out of Fresh Start into her own place with her three sons, ages 4, 7 and 9. The boys have health concerns which require special diets. Betty’s job pays just above minimum wage and she struggles to keep up with her sons’ diet demands. Gift cards to a grocery store would be a blessing to her family. To donate, please contact Fresh Start Home at 475-7777. 

44. Jill is former resident of Fresh Start Home. She has a job and attends recovery meetings. She enjoys transporting current residents of Fresh Start to meetings. With high gas prices it is hard for her to keep her gas tank filled on her part-time job. Please help her fill her gas tank by donating gas cards to a local gas station. To donate, please contact Fresh Start Home at 475-7777.

45. Max, a European Refugee orders his medications online, but recently his computer has crashed and is not worth fixing. He has many physical and mental ailments that make on-line ordering the best for him. If he could get a computer, new or used with internet capabilities and Windows XP, it would be very much appreciated. If you can help, contact Emir at FIRST Project, 488-6760.

46. Stephaine is a refugee and torture survivor from the Middle East. She is disabled and lives alone. She and her family have faced many difficulties since moving to the U.S., and she is currently separated from her family. Because of this and her disability she needs a D-link connection for communicating over the phone. This requires a T.V. 27 inches or larger and no older than three years. This would allow her to “see and sign.” If you can help, contact Emir at FIRST Project, 488-6760.

47. Macie is an immigrant from Southern Europe. She has passed her citizenship test and is very excited to vote. She has been here for eight years and loves to be outside exploring Lincoln and getting to know the community. She has many health problems, though, and requires a scooter to get around. Hers has been fixed before, but no longer works and there is no way to fix it. She would like any kind of scooter, new or used that will allow her to get around for as long as possible. If you can help, contact Emir at FIRST Project, 488-6760.

48. An organization that works with immigrants and refugees is starting up an art therapy program and is in need of supplies. To best be able to serve its clients it needs the following: sketchbooks, drawing paper, Canson Mei-Tintes paper, chalk pastels, oil pastels, watercolor, tempera paints, markers, glue sticks, gel pens, gel markers, scrapbooking paper and stickers (not holiday or religious), and moist wipes (such as baby wipes). All of these supplies will go to helping clients recover from trauma experienced in their native countries, as well as help with adjusting to the new culture here. Any donations would be very much appreciated. If you have questions or can help, please contact Christine Henning at FIRST Project, 488-6760 or by e-mail at chanfu@cox.net.

49. Sean, Beth and their three daughters could use some help this Thanksgiving. They have tried hard to maintain regular family activities, but with Sean driving to Omaha daily for work, their time is limited. The children’s ages are 10, 2½ and 6 months. The family likes to go for walks, so would love to have a double stroller for the two young ones. The 2-year-old is sitting up to the table now, but would be more comfortable in a high chair. The 10-year-old would love a cabinet that is lockable, since she shares a room with her 2-year-old sister. She would also like nail and hair products, a stereo that plays CDs, or journals to write in and stationery/note cards to send people. The 2-year-old would like princess dress-up clothes, and a doll she could dress. To maximize family time, the family would like coupons for movie rentals, rather than movie passes. Call Barb or Rita at Northeast Family Center, 471-3700.

 

50. Frannie and Fred are the calm and loving parents of two boys who are identified with autism. Mom is expecting her third child, so they would appreciate any family interaction activities. Family passes to the children’s museum and zoo would be at the top of their list. The boys, ages 2 and 4, would also like games and activities that would be interactive for them. The boys need things or experiences that would help them in the areas of reasoning, social interaction and communications skills. Call Barb or Rita at Northeast Family Center, 471-3700.

 

51.  Missy is 27 and was recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder.  She has had to endure many highs and lows because she did not have proper treatment or understanding of her mental illness. She is gaining stability now that she has proper treatment and medications. She is unable to work at this time. She does receive assistance to help pay for her rent and food, but has no income to buy other necessities. Items she is in need of include toilet paper, cleaning supplies, toiletries, and feminine hygiene products. Contact Lisa at the Community Mental Health Center at 441-7940.

52. Margaret is 73 and struggles with clinical depression. One joy in her is life is helping raise her three grandchildren.  Due to having a limited income she has never been able to purchase a dryer. If anyone could donate a new or used dryer, Margret would appreciate it very much, as it would help her and her grandchildren. She would also appreciate gift certificates to local stores like Walmart, Target or Shopko to purchase holiday gifts for her grandchildren. Contact Suzan at the Community Mental Health Center at 441-7940.

53. Maria, Laticia, and Janet have moved into an transitional living apartment while they re-learn independent living skills. They receive support and assistance to cope with various mental illnesses, and are doing very well with this help. They have a furnished apartment, but some of the items are broken or very old. They would benefit from getting a new vacuum, microwave, toaster, and coffee maker. These items will help update their apartment and make their transitions easier. Contact Monica at the Community Mental Health Center at 441-7940.

54. Jean is a 62 year old woman living on a very small fixed income. Jean was recently homeless and is now living successfully in her own apartment. Now that her life has stabilized she would like to be social again and connect with old friends. With her small budget she can pay her bills, but there is very little for extras or entertainment. She needs a phone and an alarm clock. Jean would also appreciate gift certificates to the movies or coffee shops. Contact Liz at the Community Mental Health Center at 441-7940.

55. Gilbert has been homeless for the past three years and is estranged from his family. He is now getting back on his feet and has moved into his first apartment. He is excited to have an apartment and independence. He has a meager income and can only afford to pay for his basic needs. He still needs some basic kitchen items (dishes, silverware, pans). He also needs help with the cost of grooming supplies (shampoo, razors, toothpaste, laundry soap). With the increased heating costs, he would also benefit from having some space heaters and blankets. Please contact Perian or Vicki at the Community Mental Health Center at 441-7940.

56. JoAnn is making a break from a violent domestic relationship to save herself and her soon to be newborn. In order to set up a new household, she needs a vacuum cleaner, broom and mop, kitchen and bathroom trash cans, pots & pans, twin bed and crib sheets. Please call Sherri at Family Service, 441-7949, ext. 665.

57. Isabella is a hard working pregnant woman due in December. She will be laid off work with no income and no other source of income soon. She could use baby items such as a crib, diapers, warm clothing for newborn, food gift certificates, help with utility bill and rent until she can return to work. Call Cindy at Healthy Homes, 441-6207.

58. Help families all year long! We have a number of hard working families where both husband and wife are work in low paying but steady jobs. They are able to care for their families until a crisis such as huge gas bill, car repair or another big ticket item breaks down and other community resources can’t help. We could use your support to get them over the crisis and stay on track by making a donation to our crisis fund. Call Cindy at Healthy Homes, 441-6207.

59. Paulette needs her wood floors sanded and refinished. Her home is paid off and she is a very low income. She is 73, lives alone, and is severely disabled with Parkinson’s disease. Due to mobility problems she falls frequently and uses a wheelchair. Due to her mobility problems she had to rip up all the carpeting in her house. The floors are rough, in poor condition and have slivers, etc.  Please help refinish the floors or donate money to help hire someone to do the job. Contact Jody at the Lincoln Area Agency on Aging/ LIFE, 441-7070.

60. Isabel is an elderly Peruvian woman that lives with her daughter and son-in-law. For years she has been able to assist her low income household by making their clothing. Within the past few years she has developed severe cataracts and can no longer see well enough to do even the basic of daily tasks. Since her vision has deteriorated, her son-in-law lost his job and the family does not have the resources to help her receive the proper medical attention so that she may once again enjoy sewing, reading and watching her grandchildren grow. She has no insurance coverage for her desperate need of medical care. Donations or gift certificates to an Ophthalmologist would be greatly appreciated. If you are interested in helping give the gift of sight please contact Candice at the Lincoln Area Agency on Aging/LIFE, 441-7070.

60. Dirk is a 59 year old male that is suffering from cancer. He had to stop working and has had several surgeries. He was just approved for Social Security Disability but has  not received his first check yet. He does not have a telephone. He needs someone to buy him a cell phone and pay for the first month of wireless service so he can keep in touch with his doctors and caregivers. He will be able to pay for his own cell phone service when his disability check begins. Call Jody at the Lincoln Area Agency on Aging/LIFE office 441-7070.

61. Cedars Home, an emergency shelter for children, is in need of basic clothing items for a sibling group of three who were removed from their home due to parental drug use and child neglect.  Shelley, age 14 months, needs shoes (infant size 6), pajamas  (18-24 months), socks, disposable diapers and “pull-ups” (size 4) and wipes.   Leslie, age 5, is in need of pajamas (size small or 6), socks and underwear (small).  Matthew, age 7, needs shoes (size 2.5 or 3), socks, pajamas (size small or 8), and underwear/boxers (size small or 8). Their older sister, 15-year-old Miranda, also could use pajamas (size 15-16), socks (size 9-11), jeans (15-16), a winter coat (XL) and underwear (L-XL).  The kids would also love gift certificates to any type of recreational activity such as movies, skating, or bowling. Call Peg at 437-8867.

62. Michael is a 16-year old male who has overcome many struggles in his life.  He lost his father to a car accident several years ago, leaving his mother to care for Michael and his four siblings.  Last year, Michael made a decision to quit playing basketball at school in order to get a job to help support his family.  Micheal is in need of a winter coat, long-sleeve T-shirts, and sweatshirts (all size Large) to help him get through the winter.  His family also needs assistance purchasing food, gas for transportation, and everyday personal and household items such as cleaning supplies, shampoo, soap, etc.  Any gift cards that could help his mom purchase clothes, gas, personal hygiene products or groceries for Michael or his other siblings would be much appreciated.  Please contact Renee at Cedars at 437-8925.

63. Taisha has battled chronic mental health problems throughout most of her childhood and adolescence.  During the last year she has worked very hard to gain the skills she will need to live in the community.  Because she was moved so many times while growing up she has no recreational, hobby, or entertainment related things to keep her busy, healthy and occupied.  She loves to sing, read, watch TV, and do crafts. A DVD/VCR player, electronic games, movies or movie rental vouchers, gift cards for food or to a bookstore, and any craft supplies would help her stay busy and active when she is not at school or working. Call Jamaree at Cedars Transitional Living Program, 323-7566

64. Marissa, 17, recently had to leave her home because her stepfather was physically abusive and forced her to leave.  She moved into her own apartment with her daughter and attends high school full-time.  She needs help with a new or gently used couch, dresser, twin-sized bed and a toddler bed.  She also needs help with Enfamil formula and size 1-2 diapers for her infant daughter.  Call Todd at Cedars Transitional Living Program at 437-8879.

65. Andrew, 18, is a homeless youth living on the streets.  He needs a new or gently used, fully operational bike and bike lock so he can get to his job.  He also needs a winter coat and long sleeve T-shirts (size XXL) or clothing gift certificates as well as personal hygiene products - deodorant, shampoo and conditioner.  Call Cedars Street Outreach Program at 437-8879 if you can help.

66. Shelly, a mom of two teens generously opened not only her heart, but also her home to two of her nephews and two of her nieces. Her sister’s family, living in Mississippi was a victim of Hurricane Katrina.  Shelly is excited that she can lend a helping hand to her family.  However, overnight they literally grew out of their living space and are in need of a four or five bedroom home.  They also need a bunk bed with a single bed on top and a double on the bottom. Toys, educational items and school supplies are needed to keep everyone occupied and would help with their success in their new schools. Transportation has also become a challenge. The family needs a large van to get them to school, church, outings and the grocery store. In addition, the children were only able to bring a couple of changes of clothes and winter items are needed to keep them warm during the cold Nebraska winter.  Tony, age 9, needs pants (size 10), warm shirts (large), underwear (large) and shoes (size 5).  Michelle, age 6, needs pants (size 6), shirts (size 5-6), underwear (size 6) and shoes (size 1 ½). Mike, age 5, needs pants (size 5), shirts (size 6), underwear (size 6), shoes (size 13). Tawnya, age 3, needs size 4T clothes and shoes (size 9) and a car seat, minimum weight 25 pounds. Please open your heart to Shelly, as she has opened hers to her family. If you can assist, please call Petra at Cedars, 434-5437.

67. Max works a low-paying job.  He has custody of his three year old daughter, Maggie.  Max struggles to maintain food and clothing for his daughter.  All he asks for is a winter coat for Maggie, size 4T, and maybe some educational toys for her.  Call Marsha at Mercy Housing,  477-3512.

 68. Ann is elderly and has some medical problems.  The income checks she receives do not cover her expenses.  At the end of the month, she barely has food to eat.  She has no family support.  She could use some help with food.  Call Marsha at Mercy Housing,  477-3512.

 69. Jane is a single mother of two.  She just graduated from Southeast Community College.  Finally getting her life together, she could use some gas vouchers.  Call Marsha at Mercy Housing,  477-3512.

 70. Jenna is a single mother, going to school.  Her daughter, Lisa is 8 years old and because of her income, Lisa does not get to do very many special things.  Her mother would like some movie passes and she would like to have a bike like the rest of the kids in the neighborhood.  Call Marsha at Mercy Housing,  477-3512.

 71. We have several young mothers, in need of diapers and other items for their young ones.  We would appreciate any donations for the babies, whether diapers, clothes, blankets, toys, formula, baby food, etc.  Call Marsha at Mercy Housing,  477-3512.

72. Norma is an 82-year-old female who is in desperate need of getting a specialized seat cushion to help her with a pressure ulcer. The cushion desired is a High Profile Roho Cushion 18”x18”. Due to current Medicare guidelines, Norma is not eligible for one to be paid for and the suggested retail cost of the cushion is $409. The cushion itself or any financial donations to cover the cost of the cushion would be greatly appreciated. Please call Lori at Tabitha case management, 486-8520 if you are able to help.

73. A family moved here from Northern Iraq. The husband had been a torture victim in Iraq. They need help with furniture — beds, bedding or other furniture. Call Nancy at Lincoln Housing Authority, 434-5527.

74. A single woman from Sudan works long hours out of town. She has two children. Her oldest son is in school. Her youngest son is very bright and needs help with tuition to go to a preschool or day-care with some educational opportunities. There are transportation needs too, as the mother leaves very early in the morning and does not return home until later in the day, around 6 or 6:30 p.m. Call Nancy at Lincoln Housing Authority, 434-5527.

75. An elderly woman with health issues needs transportation to medical appointments and help with snow scooping in the winter time. She has no family members. Call Nancy at Lincoln Housing Authority, 434-5527.

76. A couple has recently had their first child!  He is a wonderful bundle of joy but he doesn’t pass his newborn hearing screening.  Further evaluation shows that he has a hearing impairment in both ears and needs hearing aids. The loss has been identified early and  early intervention is now the priority.  The family has insurance but soon finds out that insurance does not cover the hearing aids, batteries, tubing or molds that are required. Hearing aids can cost $4,500.  The baby is now six months old and the family is requesting any help in purchasing hearing aids, accessories or long-term loaner hearing aids.  If you can help, please contact Stephanie Smith with the Early Development Network at 441-6702.