*Displayed are a collection of some of the photos from the 100 Neediest Cases artwork contest
The holiday season is often described as the most wonderful time of the year. But for many, it can also be a painful reminder of daily struggles—uncertain meals, overdue rent, and the question of how to stay warm through the winter.
While many gather to exchange gifts and attend holiday celebrations, far too many of our neighbors are simply trying to meet their basic needs.
100 Neediest Cases is a longstanding St. Louis tradition that helps thousands of individuals and families during the holidays through support from the community whether by adopting a family, donating or fundraising.
This program gives families like Estora’s the opportunity to have a happy holiday season. Despite lifelong challenges, 100 Neediest Cases has given peace, joy and hope to Estora and her family in the midst of hard times.
Inspirational impact
Estora’s childhood was anything but easy. Raised in the south St. Louis’ public housing by a single mother with 12 children, she grew up fast. She became a mother herself at 13 and left school after eighth grade. Resources were limited, and instability was common.
She had to have the discipline, responsibility, and motherly instincts to take care of a child while having scarce resources due to her family’s circumstances.
Yet despite the difficulties, Estora’s mom did a good job of shielding her children from all the negativity surrounding them. Public housing in the 1980s were marred by poverty, crime, unsafe living conditions, and more, but Estora’s mom provided a sense of security.
She always made sure her children had food on the table, decent clothes to wear, and during the holiday season, they were even fortunate enough to have a few gifts under the Christmas tree. Estora didn’t know it at the time, but this was all because of the 100 Neediest Cases program and the generous people who support it.
“Now that I’m older and have my own family and kids and I know that there is no such thing as Santa Claus, I realize that my mom used to get services from 100 Neediest Cases and United Way,” said Estora. “I wanted them to help my kids as well. My kids are so happy, one thing I always wanted them to have was a good Christmas, and that’s what makes this the best time of year for me.”
100 Neediest Cases first helped Estora in 2001 when she was pregnant with her third child and in the process of moving into her first apartment. Her family was adopted by someone who bought bedding furniture for her kids and various household supplies to welcome her family into their new home.
More than 20 years later, 100 Neediest Cases is still a steady source of hope.
“Everybody needs help, everybody falls short sometimes, and 100 Neediest Cases has gotten me out of a lot of binds.”
This year, the need is great again. After a car accident, reliable transportation has become a challenge. She also needs a carpet cleaner for her home, and financial help for some of her bills.
Those looking to help families like Estora’s can visit 100NeediestCases.org where you can learn more about how to adopt-a-family, donate or fundraise.
Even though Estora doesn’t have much, she feels compelled to give and help others however she can. Whether it’s donating clothes or toys to a neighbor who needs help, or sparing a few dollars to someone experiencing homelessness, Estora is committed to making sacrifices for the well-being of others. Her selflessness embodies what 100 Neediest Cases and the season of giving is all about.
“We don’t have much ourselves, but I’m all for paying it forward,” said Estora. “What I can give may not mean much to a lot of people, but for some people, it can mean everything.”
Estora is working towards a better future, she returned to school to receive her GED and with the help of 100 Neediest Cases, looks forward to creating a better life for her children.
She hopes this holiday season brings renewed hope and a promise of better days ahead.
Take action now:
- Visit 100NeediestCases.org to make a difference.
- Share this story with family and friends.
