Women try to provide for multiple children

Grandmother cares for five children

"By the Lord's blessing," was how Denise described how she received the stamina to care for five children. Three are her grandchildren whom she cares for full time. She pays for what it takes to meet her three grandchildren's needs with her Social Security check.

The three children she's raising are her son's children. Two others come after school to be looked after until their mothers get home. These two are not related to her.

The mothers of her grandchildren work, but don't contribute to meeting their needs or serving as parents. The responsibility has fallen on Denise, who said she has not put up decorations or a tree this year because she is too depressed.

There will be no Christmas gifts without donations from Toybox.

"The older children tell the younger ones about Santa and gifts because they're hearing about it and talking about it at school," she said.

It breaks her heart to know there is no money to buy gifts for the little ones she cares for.

Danielle, age 6, needs a winter coat. She is a size 8. She would also enjoy dolls, games, dress-up accessories or clothes.

A size 4T winter coat for Sadie, Danielle's 4-year-old sister, would make grandma happy because she is wearing her sister's hand-me-down coat, a bit worn out and faded. Sadie's Christmas wishes she hopes Santa will fill are the same as her sister's.

Joey, 2, needs clothes in a 4T. Since he's a boy, hand-me-downs are not an option, and his wardrobe is limited. His list to Santa includes cars, trucks and blocks.

Mom works evenings to support four

Janet's job description includes driving. Her employer reimburses her less than 10 percent of what it costs to complete her job. Luckily, she has an energy efficient vehicle. Meeting the challenge of buying at least one present on her children's Christmas list may not happen this year.

"I've relied on Toybox every year but really try to make one wish come true for them," Janet said.

Of four children, only one father pays child support and that is not dependable.

Janet works evenings because she cannot afford day care. Her mother helps with child care on weekends, and the only other help she gets is with food stamps.

Yasmin, a Bratz doll, has been 9-year-old Connie's hope since her last birthday. The Hannah Montana dance mat and singing doll and High School Musical dolls are on her Christmas wish list as well.

Transformer action figures, a WWE wrestling ring or wrestlers, a Nintendo DS, a Nerf football, and Batman and Spider-Man toys are on 8-year-old Jacob's list to Santa.

Tommy, 6, would like Transformer action figures so he and his brother can play together. He also likes Thomas the Train sets, Power Ranger action figures and easy to read books for a kindergartner.

Mark, 14 months old, likes to look at soft books and giggles enthusiastically when he interacts with light up toys or toys that make sounds. Janet would like the Up Up Elmo toy for him.