Tanya is feeling bleak for the holidays, as her husband left her with four young children, credit card debt, a huge mortgage and no support.

Her bills were piling up and the collectors were calling every single day, to the point that she stopped answering her phone. Tanya didn't want to declare bankruptcy, but she thought it might be the only way she could get out of debt.

She was referred to the Salvation Army and went in to see if the case manager could help her figure out how to deal with her finances on her own. The case manager did a careful review of Tanya's budget, and together they found ways Tanya could cut expenses. A weekly visit to the Salvation Army's food pantry was also set up so her food money could be used to pay other bills.

While Tanya's mortgage issue is still up in the air, progress is being made in the other areas.

Many people need help this year: those who are out of work, parents who are ill or have a sick child, or single parents struggling to pay rent, utilities and other necessities.

Hardships and just making ends meet may mean no extra money for gifts or a holiday meal.

The Salvation Army and the Gloucester Daily Times Holiday Fund work together to help those who need a little something extra to get their lives going again, especially around the holidays when families gather. Donations go a long way to help neighbors get going again.

Want to help?

To contribute, send checks payable to The Salvation Army Holiday Fund to 32 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA 01915. Contributions will be recorded and recognized in the newspaper in your name, or as indicated on your enclosed check. If you wish, you may list an additional family member, school, group or corporation, or designate your gift as a memorial (please specify).

If you know of anyone who needs assistance, e-mail holidayfund@ecnnews.com or write to Essex County Newspapers' Salvation Army Holiday Fund at the address listed above.

Do you need help?

To receive assistance, contact the Salvation Army at the following locations:

* Beverly, 50 Elliott St., 978-922-4522.

* Salem, 93 North St., 978-744-5181.

* Newburyport, 40 Water St., 978-465-0883, ext. 10.