I feel horrible I cannot afford Christmas again: Advice?

There are a lot of places you can call. Fire stations (we donated to ours last night) police stations, food banks, churches, Salvation Army, and the list goes on!! Get your Momma pants on and hussle up some gifts, your kids will be thrilled!!

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I know the salvation army gives emergency food boxes if you need food!!! And we used to donate toys to the Red Cross, you can call the American Red Cross.

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Pray and ask Jesus to help you to find solutions to your problems.

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Make things. They will remember that more than stuff

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Contact local churches they have members who will sponsor a family and give presents

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There is churches that give out Christmas hampers iam in the same vote this is my secound Christmas not being able to afford anything

Make things with him, art pictures, construction paper chain garlands, popcorn garlands, he will love the time with mum so much, I have to make things for my kids a lot this year also so I totally understand what your going through, but you will get through this :slightly_smiling_face: just cuddle time makes the world to them also :slightly_smiling_face:

If you don’t have your car back are you out of a job now? If any funds do the Dollar store, Salvation Army, thrift stores, places like that. Toys can be washed and be great for your son. The baby won’t care just a squeaky toy would work, stuffed toy maybe. Apply for assistance, unemployment and or food stamps but will need your car unless you apply on line. Any family members that could help?

Do you have a local Facebook page that people use to advertise free things they don’t want anymore. I’m in the uk and I have this in my area, people advertise, clothes , furniture, toys etc for free x

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A strong woman just deals. She makes it happen ON HER OWN. You got this.
New Year is around the corner. Find a Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University in your area.

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Call and speak with your news twam

Is there a Salvation Army store or St Vincent De Pauls? If you were to go in and explain your situation they can help. Maybe you could ask your family for help? Good luck Honey xx

Send me your address and I will send him a gift. It won’t be much but its something to open and say its from u. I will even wrap it. I am not rich by any means so wont be expensive. Also call local churches. They can point u in the right direction to get more help. Prayers for u both.

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I never have money! Christmas or any other time of year. I only recieve a few gifts but would rather not get any at all. I bake for my family, and I used to make my own gifts. I even regifted some gifts to someone not as lucky to get anything. Don’t feel bad about it, people will understand, even kids if you talk to them and explain. One year my poor Father made us a toy box, it was beautiful, he put cheap toys from the 5 & dime store in it.We shared them! My two older brothers and I cherrished it.I wish I could help you! You might try churches in your area. I hope you all have a blessed Christmas!

Toys for tots
Churches or schools sometimes have programs for Christmas as well

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Be a strong woman and pull up your big girl pant and get on the phone call churches anyone that helping with Christmas. If you try yourself with God help it can be done

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Contact church, charity group, etc to get help… it won’t require a lot of money but someone will give this season so your child isn’t forgotten

You need to try to find a job closer to where you live. And more than likely no one on here is going to help you cause it is hard to believe people on here. There all kind of people on here crying with one excuse or a another do you really know who to trust. But I pray everything work out for you. Get a ride to the goodwills they have new things there. I dress my grandchild with new clothes for school. Don’t give up

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Can you sign up still at like churches or pantries in your area?. Or do fun things you can make with your kiddo. Dont stress about gifts memories are so much more fun.

Is there anywhere you can contact maybe a single parents association or a church ? Anyone that would sponsor a family etc

Contact. fire dept,police dept,they have toy drives to help people.

Do you have Toys for Tots in your town?

There are churches, agencies, fire depts ,police Departments , Salvation Army. Many agencies are there to help you. Check them out

Reach out to community churches, they’ll donate stuff for your kids

at this point it’s quite late in the game for applying for assistance to get gifts. Most places have a cut off date. Check some of your local buy sell trade groups, and post this, asking for gently used toys and clothing so there’s a few presents under the tree.

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also check if there’s a buy nothing project in your town. Buy Nothing Gift neighborhood, OurTown, Planet Earth

Try toys for tots or churches and please put that little boy on child support

I’m sorry to be the odd ball out and I didnt read the comments but there is honestly no excuse for this. Thousands if not all churches & organizations help with this had you reached out within time. Do you not have one friend, family member, coworker, etc. That would not give you a wrapped gift for your son? This hurts my heart for your child and there is no way I would let this happen. I would dig through trashcans, walk to every church within my area before my child would not have one gift on xmas!

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Try to find local places that give free gifts to people in need

If its any consolation…I survived. My last Christmas with gifts was at 11 or 12… I watched as all my cousins and friends had Christmas. I learned to lie about what I got for Christmas. So, yes it sucked! But, I’m ok… lol

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Toys for tots is a great option to get some fun toys for Christmas! You will probably be able to get a nice variety of things. Sending prayers your way. :heart:

you need to be oon the phone calling every place that has toy drives… why is it we always see these posts right before xmas… all these places have deadlines… why were you not thinking about this in november… I don’t get it. I am a single mom to 5…and I know just like you know…months ago xmas is coming it’s the same day every year… please please be on top of this next year…even if you think you.might not need the help apply to toys for tots and other organizations anyway so you aren’t stuck. I’m sorry you are going through this… but it seems like I read a million of these posts a week before xmas every year. Its sad

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It’s to late to sign up for anything y’all are mean some of the stuff you are saying you should be ashamed of yourself I hope that you never have to go through some stuff like this I’ve been in your position with no help and stuff happening at the last minute being a single mom is hard and I wish that I could help you ignore the idiot’s comments it sounds like you are trying to do the best you can I would take some of the people’s offers on here don’t feel like you are doing anything wrong I’m sorry that you are going through all of this life can be difficult for some of us I hope everything gets better!!

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Is Safteynet in your area? Or city kids?

call salvos and all those type go to talk to centerkink see if they have anything set up fot this reason

You get taxes and child tax every single year. You have bought a few small things to put away for Christmas. You could have bought something small every pay check. There is no excuse

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Look up the group, helping hands for simple demands. It’s cutting it very close but they may be able to help you.

Hi love,
I’m sorry for all the horrible comments ! I know how hard it is to get by. I have 4 daughters, and my husband works his butt off to provide, and I work two days out of the week to get the things my girls need. It is hard. Especially when there are so many judgemental people out there! All I want to say is that I was the type of mom to make sure my children got a lot of presents under the tree but as they got older, they only cared about the toys for a few weeks and then they did not care about them anymore. This year we are doing things differently. We are doing something they need, something they really want, and a book to read. We are also gathering a storage bin full of hygiene products to donate along with wonderful people who are helping me to get it together. I want to teach my girls what Christmas is really about. Dont worry if there is not a lot of presents under the tree. Create memories, such as christmas lights, community activities etc :heart: much love and a big hug! (Also, if you cant get anything at all, reach out to a church, most have programs, or someone who is willing to help)

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We have local online yard sale sites here people post on there asking for help and usually someone will, they may be gently used toys but it would be new to him.

To be honest, the best christmas my kids and I had was when I could only get them a couple things from the dollar tree. We had no tree, no stockings. Spent the day watching christmas movies cuddled on the couch together!

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How about every pos on here downgrading this mother try to help instead of hurt. If 10 people could send a $5-$10 gift to this child he would have an amazing Christmas. I’ll be the first. If the admin messages me with an address and an age I’ll send something from Santa.

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Please let me know where you are and what your son is into so I can send something for him x

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Make easy money quick walking dogs. Lots of apps for it. Pays well too. Ask friends and family for donations and for toys their children do not want or have outgrown. Usually there r lots of free Christmas events involving pics w santa and crafts and food, look them up on Facebook. Join a church. Sell things u don’t want or need anymore. Browse the free section on Facebook marketplace and Craigslist. Take advantage or county help, get in touch w social services to make sure u r getting all the benefits u and ur child can get.

Even if you just go to dollar tree and get 8-10 gifts I’m sure your son would be thrilled and it’s better than nothing

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Take back cans and bottles and some change. You only need 10 dollars to buy a couple gifts at dollar general or Walmart. You can do it.

Message me what he likes or make a amazon wish list and share. We are here for you and we got your back on bringing the magic of Christmas to you and your child!

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Can you at least get him one thing? I am sure he’ll be happy with that. There was a Christmas I believe two years ago where you were having bad financial problems that we could literally only get our kids one gift each (we have 3 kids). Believe me I know how it feels like your a bad mom when you can’t afford Christmas, but just remember your not a bad mom you do everything you can for your children and sometimes unexpected things happen that you can’t control. I am sure if you can just get him at least one thing he’ll be happy with it, or just got to the dollar store and fill up a stocking for him.

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I was in the same boat many yrs ago when I got divorced and had 2 kids age 3&1 and he wasnt paying support. I had a wonderful church that we belonged to and they helped me so much. Then when my kids were 5&7 they were in school and the school heard about my situation, yes i was working also, but they came to my house with gifts and gift certificates for my kids. I was truly blessed. That was in Pittsburgh Pa. Tho, but do you belong to a church? Or did you reach out to any?

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Can an admin message me an address and ages for these children!? I would like to get a few gifts out in the mail first thing monday morning for them :blue_heart:

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Love and strenghth to you mama, could you possibly afford a 1 or 2 small gifts from santa or maybe a diy prezzy? In austrlia we have charities that are abke to help with gifts for children whis parents are struggling at christmas do you have anything like that where you are? I hope you can figure something out and you and your kids have a lovely Christmas just remember it doesnt have to be alot it just has to be filled with love

There’s a thousand different ways to get presents/money during this season. Go to dollar tree. Sign up for one of those programs that helps out low income families.

Christmas comes at the same time EVERY year. If you always seem to be broke around this time maybe you should start planning for it throughout the year. Maybe grab a gift or two throughout the year when the dad does pay his child support.

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This is why I debate with myself on telling my son Santa brings presents. What if one year my hubby and I can’t get him anything? Or even his grandma (who loves getting him things)? Then he would feel bad and wonder what he did to deserve it. :confused: I’m so sorry you’re in this situation :broken_heart: if I had any extra money I’d send something for your little one

Momma, you are not the only one going through this. I know its hard because to our children gifts matter and to us it is about being together. I am a single mother of 4 I recently lost my job and now the bills are piling up and the kids are expecting Christmas and I don’t have the money to provide Christmas for my children. When all the places were helping provide Christmas I was working as a server and missed there sign up deadlines and pickup times. society today makes our children believe its about the most expensive gifts and what they want. I am sorry people are so judgemental it breaks my heart as I am in the same situation. Prayers for you honey

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We all have problems in are lives. We all sometimes can’t make ends meet. But down grading a person isn’t going to help there situation. I’m struggling this Christmas too. But you know what God will make a way for all my children. God bless you. And hopefully your Christmas will be full of joy and happiness

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This person just asked for some suggestions … Not all the negative comments I just read… . Cuddos to the people that gave positive helpful suggestions … Shame on the people that just put out negative comments and no helpful solutions or information! What comes around goes around to all of u negative miserable people! Hope she finds the help she needs!

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There are ppl here that will help you out pm me with what he likes and I’ll send something to him for you for Christmas

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Yeah, I’ll be that person. I see alot of people who say they cant afford anything for their kids for Christmas. And to me, that’s a bunch of crap. If you can find 10 dollars, you can get 9 things from dollar tree. Do you smoke? Have you gotten a coffee this year? Bought a new shirt or hair dye? Well, that money could have went toward the worlds smallest toy for Christmas. And even IF you dont have a SINGLE dollar, there are programs to apply for and not wait until 10 days before Christmas. Tots for tots, churches, angel tree. Whole nine yards. So yeah. I’ll be that person. Who says that people who say “they feel bad” because they cant afford Christmas for their kids only feel bad because they didnt try.

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There are over a hundred reacts to this post and over five hundred comments. Maybe if we all sent a dollar via cash app or messenger, that boy will have one hell of a Christmas.

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There a r e many places that help with christmas. Schools, churches, etc. Start networking etc. There is help but you got to get out there . No car? Call around.

You aren’t a horrible parent. Look in to toys for tots or churches. Do you have any family that could help? Good luck to you!!!

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Please make an amazon wishlist and have the admin share it on this post as an update.

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Ask your local church.
Does his like firetrucks? Maybe arrange for a tour and ride with local fire department after explaining your situation. Give it as a letter from Santa.

Try to get creative.

I hope you feel better and know you’re not a bad mom if you have tried your best :heart:

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Find a local church that helps with things like this!

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I’ve gotten all my kids their favourite chips, lollies, chocolate and drinks and wrapped each separately. I also do their school book packs to teach the that education is a gift some are not afforded.
We do kris kiringle for the adults capped at 30. So maybe cap at 10 if you want… That means everyone in the family gets a gift and it’s a funny joke or personal joke gift that brings laughter and fun!
Its about presence… Nit presents mama.
Don’t be so tough in yourself x

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I know the struggle momma… You say you have a job? Why can’t you take at least 20 bucks and buy him a couple cheap little presents so the boy has at least something…

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And also I agree that there is no excuse for not have signed up for some kind of christmas assistance program. Help is out there you just have to look

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How about going to People to People that have ways to help you have a nice Christmas w ur son

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Memories are always better when it comes to Christmas spending time with him watch some movies if you can get some little snacks (microwave popcorn, ice cream ) and spend some quality time with him he won’t see it now but in the future he will thank you for everything you have done for him , teaching him how t walk, use utensils and even potty training. Your not a horrible person your not a horrible mum. Get something creative you can pick up colouring books pretty cheap sit down and colour with him take him for a walk to see some Christmas lights
:slightly_smiling_face: your doing amazing keep your head high

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Could you try a local church

Sadly it is probably too late to apply for most of these things you guys are suggesting. A lot of places want to know if you need help months in advance not days before. You may be able to find a church that can help??

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What does he like? Where do you live? I may be able to go through my sons things and send him some. They won’t be new but their not tore up either. You can pm me if you’d like and I’ll see what I can come up with in such a short period of time and get it in the mail. I’ve been in your shoes I’m currently in your shoes but I have been blessed with help from local places and we have scrapped together some money for a few things. My husbands boss passed away and we also rent from him well his son took over everything and now wants us to move so on top of my husband not having a job we also have to move so all the money we have has to go towards moving. But I’m wanting to go through my sons toys to have room for the little bit he will get.

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Try to find a discount store or even CCA, they have toys at discount prices. Or look on Facebook marketplace. A lot of people have toys they’re trying to get rid of before the holidays. Maybe explain your situation, or post on a local trade/sell/buy page on FB and see what’s out there. There are plenty of toys you could get him for $10 or less

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Is there something like the Salvation Army or the giving tree is what it’s called here that you can go to for help? Or maybe even buy some little things at the dollar store for him to give him the experience of Christmas! Christmas doesn’t have to be big and crazy if you need the funds to provide for
Your family you’re doing a fine job! Maybe reach out to family?

It’s probably too late to do a toys for tots type thing but u could always go to Dollar tree, and show your kids that it’s not about the gift but it’s the thought and spirit.

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Could still sign up or call places there help put pride in pocket and get your kids something even if make sonething from :heart:

So so so much at the dollar store

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I also know how it is to be so worried about having a Xmas for your son! But everything will work out, it always does. What state or town do you live in? Let everyone on this site know. I know i would love to help! I even have a puppy (terrier mix) that i would love to give him! Lots of people out here in the world are still good and care and to hell with no good dads! Take him back to court. Hes heartless to spend your $ rather than see his child have xmas.if i can help, message me back. I will help however i cam!

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$20 at the dollar tree goes a long way. You could spend $15 on toys and $5 on wrapping paper, tape etc. Your child would be thrilled. Check and see if you have anything you could pawn and get some money like that.

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Remember it’s not about gifts… make memories thats what lasts a lifetime… I have 6 and we definitely dont have extra funds…

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I’d like to send a little help, I don’t have a lot, but I can spare some.

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Consider reaching out to local churches for some help.

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A lot of tax places do early income tax. Do that. That’s what I did for my Christmas .

What don’t you write a post on Facebook and explain your situation maybe? Ask for donations. Kids don’t understand the difference between new and old toys and I’m pretty sure he’d just be glad to be getting something for Christmas.

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Could you pm me the area you live in?

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You negative judgemental bitches that are assuming instead of sending ideas or positive vibes will have karma slap your asses around one day for sure. Some of you act like you are better than the next. Shit happens…
Everyone doesn’t have family and friends that can help or that even contribute or care. You don’t know the next person’s whole story, what they have been thru, what they battle with daily and so on. Y’all kill me always finding time to comment your unnecessary opinion on a post like this instead of being encouraging or helpful or just keeping your mouth shut if you don’t have a heart and understanding about life and things some people go thru. No one is perfect and this mama that posted this is trying. If I could help, I would but I am in the same boat having struggled through months of problems and bad luck and set backs and things that were straight up outta My control. Kudos and hugs to the REAL WOMEN reaching out to help her and her babies or even just commenting positively. It was too many unnecessary comments or I would tag all you heartless rude judgmental assuming females smh. You can tell the ones who have never had to struggle thru a really hard time that came at a really bad time that was unforeseen with no one to turn to for help. To the struggling mama that posted this…I understand and you are not a bad mother, you will make it thru your storm to better days. I know it’s hard, believe me, cuz I could post what all my two boys and I have been thru the last half of this year and it would shock you. I have faith in the good hearted ladies that reached out to you and that you will receive some help. Some of us Mama’s truly understand and been there and know how life can play out sometimes unlike the rude assuming ass judgemental ones that need to humble themselves and work on their character and ways instead of commenting nonsense on an already hurting/heartbroken/down mother’s cry for help/advice. Happy Holidays and thank you to the positive helpful Mama’s on here!

Have you reached out to the salvation army our outreach centers give it a try I’m so sorry

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How old is your son? I could send you some used toys to wrap up?! I’ll wrap them for you if you want? Tons of people are willing to help. Don’t be embarrassed. You’re not a bad mom as long as you love him and are there for him.

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i’m crying :cry: this is AWFUL go to the courts see if they can’t do anything about him not paying child support if he’s supposed to an as far as his ugly ass wife if she’s a mom herself she should be more receptive about helping you in your situation but my mom used to take us to the salvation army to pick out a couple of toys like every other year bc we didn’t have much either i got toys so my sister can have more so i can understand where you’re coming from from the child’s perspective about not having any toys or anything for christmas an tbh i never really was upset about other kids getting gifts i knew that was the deal but i wasn’t upset i wanted them to be happy i’m glad they got clothes an toys an whatever they wanted an some people would come an share what they got with me an that’s how i made friends but i was always the loner quiet kid but i was bad so i was in detention a lot bc i didn’t wanna go home but trust me i’m sure he understands the situation more than you think if not i would sit down with him (depending on age like still believing in santa age) i would say mommy can’t afford christmas this year but i’ll make it up to you when i can i promise but if he is the age where he still believes i would say that if santa didn’t come this year it’s bc he’s getting more toys an stuff for next christmas or something hopeful that doesn’t hurt his feelings i’m sure it’s a awful situation an i’m literally so sorry my heart breaks for you i wish i lived nearby i would buy some toys or something for him :sob:

So you had another baby, where is that baby daddy or is it by the douche ex? Either way, why did you have another child considering your circumstances? I’m not bashing, I’m just saying. Girl I am so glad I only have one kid. If I had anymore I’d drive myself to a mental asylum quick! All I can say is try goodwill, salvation army, angel tree if you have it in your area, churches, and search fb to see if there are any buy sell trade groups for your area. Post your circumstances and see if anyone could help with at least something small. Next year, instead of trying to save money, try buying 1 gift a month and putting it away for xmas. That way you dont have to stress as much.

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Do you have pay through messenger?

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First of all, you are not a horrible mother. You’re doing the best you can and that’s what matter. Start calling around churches and welfare organizations and explain you situation. They might be able to help

There have been a bunch of ladies in here offering to send gifts has anyone gotten a response??? I’ll send one ! And if not … why not …

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I will get him a toy, please message me

I am also willing to send a gift for him. Please PM me

Facebook group called secret santa. You can set up a amazon account and people can buy the stuff your kids want

You could have signed up for toys for tots it’s late now. Ask if anyone in your area can help. 2,000 on parts for a car is ridiculous. Next year every pay check buy one small item .I am not able to get my kids much for Xmas I have 5 kids and bills I buy them a few cheap items or things they need and that s it

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Mama. Dont you know the best gift you can give those babies is YOUR TIME. In ten years, or 20, or 50, they aren’t gonna remember the gifts they did out didn’t get. They’re gonna remember the memories. So if you need to spend, spend TIME with them making memories. You’re doing just fine. :heart::heart::heart:

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Reach out to local churches, call the salvation army office and ask if they can help in any way.

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Salvation Army and op shops or cheap shops where you can spend a little bit of money and grab a whole bunch of toys.

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