Goodfellows helps single mom struggling to feed and shelter five kids

“The dad just decided he didn’t want to be a dad anymore and walked out,” said Kristina, who’s just shy of 40 and trying to keep five kids clothed, sheltered and fed.

“We haven’t seen him in years, when my youngest son was a month old,” Kristina said. “He doesn’t even know that his son has autism.”

The boy, now 7, is the second of her children diagnosed with autism. A 15-year-old has struggled with the condition most of his life. A 13-year-old son has other mental health issues. Kristina’s older daughter recently moved back in with her, bringing a 15-month-old child with her.

Despite having a full-time job as a customer service representative, Kristina needs help making ends meet. She’s a regular at an area food bank and goes to another charity every six months to get clothes and other necessities.

“The situation won’t improve anytime soon,” Kristina said. “I’m doing whatever I can to make it.”

Goodfellow Fund is helping Kristina make a little better Christmas for her kids with three $50 J.C. Penney gift cards that can be used only for clothes and shoes.

“I’m going to catch the amazing sales after Black Friday,” Kristina said. “They’re in dire need of shoes and jackets, and I’ll get whatever clothes I can after that.”

Kristina said she understands that things are hard for most everyone these days, so she knows that donating money to an organization like Goodfellows this close to Christmas is exceptionally generous.

“I can’t express how much this means to me to go and get stuff I normally wouldn’t be able to without your help,” she said.

Be a jolly Goodfellow

Since 1912, the Star-Telegram’s Goodfellow Fund has provided practical gifts for schoolchildren. Join this tradition by sending a contribution to Goodfellows, Since 1912, the Star-Telegram’s Goodfellow Fund has provided practical gifts for schoolchildren. Join this tradition by sending a contribution to Goodfellows, Box 1870, Fort Worth, TX 76101. Or visit goodfellowfundfw.com to make a secure credit card donation.