Dear Readers – On January 9, 2012, a single mother with three children wrote of her struggles earning only minimum wage after an injury. Her children were bullied for wearing the same clothes repeatedly when she had no time for laundry, she couldn’t afford after-school activities, and she felt “all alone in this.”

I published many of the readers’ responses that flooded my email, with helpful ideas and encouragement for her.

We’re now approaching the festive season when so many who cannot afford daily needs for themselves and their children, also feel alone.

Here are more ideas and comments that I’ve saved, to send hope to those who dearly need it.

Reader #1 – “I was a single mother years ago raising three small girls, and working for very little income.

“It's difficult, yet kids look to their parent(s) and follow the cues.

“As long as clothes are clean and in good order, the kids will be okay. Explain that they cannot control what others do or say, but they can control how they react.

“Try to make things seem more fun, more magical. Be positive, and believe that you and they will be fine.

“I didn't have money for regular store-bought donuts, so I made little ones, with my daughters' help. I’d say it was a great treat, our special donuts. They loved them.

“We spent that time baking together, laughed, ate, and only when they were adults did they realize the real reason behind home-made donuts.

“We bought dollar-store or flea market Christmas ornaments and painted them crazy colours, then hung them on the tree.

“We rented movies at the library, we spent time in Nature. The “trick” was not to let them know that it was because I didn't have money.

“They’re all adults now (all graduated from college and university, living on their own and working, contributing members of society).

“I was eventually able to get a better job and have worked my way up.

“There is hope, but first you have to believe it.”

Reader #2 – “She (any struggling parent) should speak with the principal and teacher about her financial situation. It's amazing how much people are willing to help once they realize there’s a need.

“At our kids' schools, children are still able to participate in all trips and activities, even if unable to pay, and it’s handled confidentially.”

Reader #3 – “Brownies, Girl Guides, or Cub Scouts are excellent programs and you only pay what you can, nothing if you cannot.

“The YMCA will help you if money’s a problem. Kids can take swimming lessons, basketball, and many other options. Story-time at the library is free and they often have craft days too.”

Reader #4 – “Parks and Recreation calendars have information numbers to call about subsidized programs available to low income families.

“Canadian Tire has a subsidy program for various sports activities. The St.Vincent de Paul Society run by the Catholic Church also provides help to needy families of all faiths.

“She may also join a single parents’ group to participate in social activities for herself and her children.”

Reader #5 – “Contact a social worker at the YMCA or through a community centre, they have access to information of available services.”

Reader #6 – “Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada (bgccan.com) run after-school programs (often quietly waiving fees for families in-need).

“Not only do they support kids' physical and emotional development, they help with school work and as kids grow they offer leadership opportunities and scholarship support for teens who want to pursue post-secondary education.”

Reader #7 – “A strong single mother nurtures strong, principled children. Here are some points on what got my three kids and me through:

1. Never compare yourself to others. This is your life; make the most of it.

2. Friends and neighbours are often wonderful people. They paid my girls for baby-sitting jobs. They also gave the girls’ hand-me-downs.

3. My kids helped me with household chores, laundry, dishwashing, and cutting veggies.

4. Eat smartly. We portioned one-pound of ground beef into six. We would use one portion to sauté with veggies and that was a satisfying meal. There are so many healthy foods that are actually cheaper.

5. Most importantly, a home with lots of love, compliments, care, and understanding is crucial. Always make the children feel securely loved. Make them dream and give them lots of hope. Show them what perseverance can do.”