HBM is once again proud to support a St. Louis family identified by the United Way of Greater St. Louis as one of the 100 Neediest Cases. A tradition since the early 1900s, the program identifies local families enduring extreme hardship, connecting them with resources and helping hands during the holiday season.
This year we supported a small family that really touched our hearts – a single mother and her six-year-old son. The family is grappling with a trauma unimaginable to most. Several years ago, the young boy witnessed a family member’s fatal shooting, then had the gun pointed at him.
Understandably, this experience has affected the mother/son relationship. Therapy is helping the family bond and find new opportunities to share feelings in a safe and secure environment. Despite this progress, mom is struggling with getting it all done on her own – especially around the holidays.
No child and parent should endure this pain. With the support of our team, we were able to raise $1,200 to purchase winter clothing and boots for the family. We wanted to give them both a Christmas to remember, so we also scooped up a bicycle, razor scooter, superhero toys, a dresser and gift cards to a variety of restaurants and stores. We know this gesture cannot erase the trauma the boy endured, but we do hope that we can provide our “adopted family” with peace and warmth this holiday.
From our family to yours, we wish you a happy and healthy holiday season.