Marie is already planning to celebrate the holidays with her six grandchildren.

Marie has six Christmas stockings for her grandchildren that she's waiting to hang in her Independence Lodge apartment.

Her son is in jail and her daughter is struggling, so she does all she can to provide something for her grandchildren.

"I do as much as I can because he can't," she said. "I love my grandkids."

Fulfilling Christmas wishes of a wagon and dolls will be difficult for her as well. About 10 years ago, now 44-year-old Marie had a stroke that left her in a coma for more than a year. She requires a wheelchair to get around, and her speech is obscured.

Despite her challenges, she loves living at Independence Lodge, where she has her own apartment and a personal care attendant who helps her for a few hours a day. Program director Paula Williams says she is one of the most active residents, always ready for a game of dominoes.

For the holidays, she expects to have an apartment full of grandchildren. And she has a request of her own - a new bathrobe.

Marie and her family are not alone. Dozens of our families need your help to have a merry Christmas this year.

They are single moms, grandmothers and working parents doing all they can to make ends meet.

Sometimes, there just isn't enough leftover for the extra toys or special meals for their children.

We have asked each for a brief profile and list of what their children would like. Requests range from clothes to books to "anything Hannah Montana." You can choose a family that best meets your needs. Gifts should be purchased and returned by Dec. 17.

Contact Sondra Dixon at 429-7510 or sdixon@voanorthla.org if you can help.  Or forward this message on to someone who might be interested.