PLEASE SEE THE UPDATE AT THE BEGINNING OF THIS POST – THE NINTH ANNUAL JAMES GARFIELD MIRACLE

in James Garfield for Sainthood

So here’s my giant update: I made it almost 10 hours before running out of money and I was so happy to be able to help so many people.  Even more wonderful was how often I’d go to fill a list and find it was already filled.  Thank you.  Thank you on behalf of the hundreds and hundreds of kids who will have a present to open this year because of you.

Usually we make it to day two or three before it starts to get frustrating and you start to see people asking for crazy amounts of things but this year things got crazy a little quicker.  I tried to delete lists where people asked for more than the limits but so I’m exhausted so right now I’m going to just put a big BUYER BEWARE sign out and  say that there are probably a lot of wonderful people in the comments who still need help and are asking for a children’s book or a doll and if you can find those people you should help them.  But be careful.  Click on the filters to see what’s already been bought.  Ignore the lists that are insanely long.  Or just skip the lists and donate to Project Night Night.  Or Toys for Tots.  Or buy toys yourself and drop then off at your local shelter or domestic abuse center.

I’m feeling a little cynical right now but I’m going to shake that off because I am lucky to be able to help every child I helped.  I’m lucky to not have to worry this year, although I know each year is precarious and fragile.  I’m lucky to be surrounded by wonderful people who care and I’m lucky to not be in such a desperate spot that I make questionable decisions.

So tonight I’m going to shake off the frustration and instead say, “thank you.”  Thank you to everyone who helped, who asked for help, who felt a stir in their heart.  I am so lucky.

And if you happen to have gotten much more than your share of presents, don’t feel guilty.  I don’t want that.  Those presents are yours to do with as you choose. And if you happen to have asked for far more than you should have, perhaps consider giving those extra presents to a shelter.  Bundle your kids up and take them with you.  Feel good about giving.  Teach your kids how great it feels.  Because it does.  I promise.

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TODAY IS THE NINTH ANNUAL JAMES GARFIELD XMAS MIRACLE, Y’ALL.

Nine years of giving toys to kids who might not otherwise get presents.  That’s insane.  Almost as insane as the fact that this all began with a giant dead boar named James Garfield.

James Garfield and I love you.

The backstory: Nine years ago I bought a very jolly but kinda f-ed up boar head (named James Garfield)  and Victor thought I was crazy so I sold some homemade Xmas cards to make up the $90 I paid for him but I made so much I decided to give the money back to parents struggling to buy a toy for their kid.

It went quickly but as soon as I ran out of cash a ton of other people stepped up and asked if they could send toys to strangers and it grew into a weird but lovely tradition.

Each year I think will be the last year but each year people who were helped in the past ask if we’ll do it again so they can give back.  For those who like something easier you can give to Project Night Night, a brilliant organization that provides a book, stuffed animal and security blanket to kids experiencing homelessness, and also to Heifer because it’s nice to be able to donate the ass end of a water buffalo on the behalf of relatives that you don’t really like.

The JGXM is one of my favorite things ever but it only works if people follow the rules and this year they’re going to be a little stricter so that we can make sure to help as many people as possible.  PLEASE read all the rules and directions because if you don’t I may have to delete your post and that would suck for everyone.

  • The JGXM is for all children (under age 18) so if you are a parent and you’re struggling this year and don’t know how you’re going to buy you kid a present you can make and submit one wishlist with presents for your kids.  The limit is $35 per kid so please don’t ask for more than that because otherwise we can’t help as many children.
  • The only exception to the $35 limit is if you have a child that really needs a new coat.  Then you can add that as well.
  • Do not delete your list after it’s been filled and don’t delete anything that’s been bought.  It messes up the process.
  • On Friday after lots of the lists have been filled you can come back and add more things to your list if you still need food/pajamas/etc.
  • I’m going to go through the details of setting up a list but here are the two things that you really need to catch so I’ll say them twice.  Only add things that are “PRIME”.  Not only will this make sure you get your toy before Xmas but also most non-Prime sellers won’t ship to wishlist addresses.  And you have to set up a brand new wishlist for this which means you MUST go in and assign a shipping address specifically to this new list or it won’t work.  Every year hundreds of people forget to do this and it’s so frustrating for them and for the people who can’t help them.

Okay, let’s get started!

If you’re in need here is what you need to do.  Please follow each step:

1.Create a list.  (On Amazon, when you’re logged in you should see “Accounts & Lists”.  Click that and choose “Create a List.”

create a list

2.  Choose “wish list”.  Name your list.  Make sure it’s “public”.

3.  Go shopping.  Pick the thing ($35  limit) you want for each child and click on the “Add to List” dropdown button to add it to your list.  Please don’t make a separate list for each child.  Just make one list for all of them.  Please click here to see an example of what it should look like when it’s done.

Add to wishlist

4.  After your list is complete click on “add comment, quantity & priority” to add a comment about which things are for which kids and what age they are.  (You can just use their initials if you want.)

Add comment telling us who the gift is for

5.  This is the part people screw up the most.  YOU MUST assign a shipping address to your wishlist.  It’s kept private so all we see is the name of your city when we send you stuff.  See how it says “None” in the shipping address box below?  Don’t do that.  Click on it and add your address.    Delete the “Don’t Spoil my surprises” check box.  Makes sure NONE of the check boxes on the bottom are checked before you save changes.  This is so important.

6.  Go to “Manage lists” and check again.  Does it show your shipping address?  Are all of the boxes unchecked?  Awesome.  Save changes.  Copy the page address and come back here to the comments.

7.  Your comment should state how many kids you have, their ages, and THE CITY YOUR PRESENTS ARE GOING TO.  This is important because if you’re from Canada, for example, I can’t buy for you without paying extra for shipping but there will be people from Canada looking for other Canadians to help and it makes it easier to match up.  It’s also necessary because if your city doesn’t match what the gift registry says at checkout we can tell there’s a mistake and not send your gifts to the wrong person.  (It happens.)

8.  Do not feel bad about asking for help.  I suspect all of us (including myself) have been in tough economic situations before and for most of us this is such a wonderful gift to be able to give.  In fact, many of the people who come here to donate received help in the past.  One day you will pay it forward.

9. One out of 1,000 people will try to game the system here.  Please don’t be that person.  There’s a limited amount of money so please don’t take away from other children.

10.  Be happy and accept my thanks for letting us make this happen.

If you want to donate:

  1. Find a wishlist.  Buy what you want.  Proceed to checkout.  A page will ask you to choose a shipping address and it’ll probably default to your address so make sure you change it to their address.  Usually it’s the first address under “Other addresses” and it’ll say something like “_________’s gift registry address”.  On the next page it’ll give you the city it’s being shipped to so you can make sure you have the right address that matches the comment.  If they don’t match or you aren’t given an address then they probably made a mistake.   Delete everything in your cart and try another list.
  2. Very rarely someone will ask for more than the limits.  If that happens I’ll try to delete their post but just be aware that there’s a lot of trust needed to do this so no worries if it’s not for you.  I try to delete anyone that I can tell is gaming the system but I also try to give people the benefit of the doubt, especially when young children are involved.  If you have doubts, skip them.
  3. Be happy and accept my thanks for letting us make this happen.

If the amount of blind trust on this is a bit much for you then a FANTASTIC alternative is Project Night Night, which I cannot recommend enough.  Last week I put my Bloggess Calendar up for sale and already $1,400 has been raised to help them help children.  You did that.  Thank you.

Another quick thing…the money I spend each year on helping kids come directly from you.  From advertisers, from people who buy my books, or use my links.  If you are a part of this community, know that today I will be giving out over $5,000 in toys because of you.  I am so incredibly lucky to be a part of this community.

Okay…let’s do this.

2nd UPDATE:  Day 2.

I love you guys so much. Sorry I got snippy last night. I was a little exhausted and overwhelmed and I always panic at how many people won’t be helped. I think next year I’m going to finally accept all the wonderful offers of help that you guys always give. Something automated perhaps, so that the wish lists can be approved first and we can make sure that people include all the info they need and that people aren’t asking for to little or too much. I know it can be complicated and I’m sorry about that. Thanks so much for being so amazing and patient.

I’m going to see if I can find some more cash and maybe drop some more gifts late this afternoon. Love!

4,076 thoughts on “PLEASE SEE THE UPDATE AT THE BEGINNING OF THIS POST – THE NINTH ANNUAL JAMES GARFIELD MIRACLE”

Read comments below or add one.

  1. Kawaii punk could you post your list again I’m not sure I can get everything but I would like your family to have something even if it comes late

  3. Kawaii the record player and record are on the way, but won’t arrive until the 27th unfortunately. Hope your family has a great New Years

  4. @Anonymous 4003 Thank you soo much for your kindness and big heart!!!! Thank you soo much!

  5. Kawaii punk I was able to get the record player and record. I hope your family has a blessed holiday and wonderful new year

  8. Gosh… I’m out of town and haven’t been back to catch up on comments, I’m reading all this on my phone. Usually this is when all the gratitude is rolling in. I simply cannot believe that someone would act grinch-y intentionally and that such a stupid oversight is possible on Amazon! I am so sorry for all of you affected by this. If I were home I’d put together a short list so people could see who got affected and make a consolidated list so people could see. Jenny don’t feel bad, who knew this could happen! I looked at those affected and didn’t recognize any that I personally bought from, except I think I may have bought mittens for Javon? I bought so much stuff it’s hard to recall, but my cart IS empty, I double checked. Fingers-crossed that this only affected a small bunch and it can be set right somehow.

  9. Hi Serine23! We didn’t have the mittens. We had the toys for the kids on our list. Two items were sold out and I didn’t see your post until later. I can’t believe it either. This is really messed up that someone would do it right before the holiday.

  10. I found out about this family today during church. Most of the time they don’t have running water or electricity. Both parents are in jail and the granddad is doing what he can to take care of them. When I asked them for a list of what they wanted for Christmas, this is what they gave me. But they said they had not gotten anything in as long as they could remember. I wanted to reach out to you to see if you could help. These four kids are just looking for some basic necessities if anyone can help, I really appreciate you. http://a.co/gUE7p34

  11. Javon2096… so sorry agin to hear that happened to you and your family. I would love to believe someone made a mistake but it doesn’t sound like it. Hopefully these are the sort of things that don’t happen next year. You’d think those items would just stay in someone’s cart. It really doesn’t make sense to me. Twice when I was shopping someone else bought items that were actively in my cart and I got a warning that said something like “someone may have purchased this item off this wishlist” and I was able to just buy something else. Amazon needs a charity-specific program that we could use and avoid these terrible problems. I do hope that your holiday is filled with love and joy, and the comfort of family. I wish you the very best!

  12. Gosh, I can’t type on my phone… I meant you’d think they WOULDN’T just stay in carts. You’d think they’d bounce back to someone’s list after a short period of time…

  13. Hi Serine23
    I was reading on Reddit about this happening to some of the families they were trying to help as well. I believe that while there might have been a grinch or two out there, there might have been glitches with Amazon as well that affected a lot of wishlists. All the items I sent to some of the folks here have shipped or arrived as of today and luckily no glitches or grinches affected the families I played Santa for. I do believe that it was a combination of issues that caused this unfortunate situation. I’m so sorry to the families that were affected. Please know that a lot of us care.
    Sending everyone a hug.

  14. @Kawii Punk

    I am so sorry this happened to you as well, I came back here to comment after being worried about 3 items that were not received and had then seen how many people were affected by the person or people who did this. I had the same answer from Amazon about the being put on reserve. my op was 2377 that was mentioned by an anonymous comment with 3 other lists saying they were filled. So, I am guessing this was done at least for my kid’s list with the other posters number done by one person, which Amazon was able to tell me the 3 items were marked by the same person. My heart goes out to you for what it is worth, your name looks familiar to me. I am thinking it was mentioned in a comment from another as you being one helping organize the lists maybe? Idk it all does not matter, honestly reading your comment broke my heart and along with everyone who also had this done to them. I am shocked this was done by so many and cannot grasp why especially entire lists. I wish I was on the other end to be able to help others to fix all the wrong that has been done, I have 2 older children a boy who is 14 and a 17-year-old daughter. The reason I mention this is only I seen you mentioned one of yours just turned 18, I am not sure if either of my kids might have something gently used that yours would like but do know they are good-hearted individuals and would give up things they don’t use or like anymore. I know this is not much help right now with the holiday coming in 2 days but from one mom to another I feel your pain. I don’t know when I would be able to mail anything if there is something your kids may like but please feel free to contact me anytime. Just tag me in the comments here, I am okay with giving my email out to you if you feel up to talking at all. My love to you and I am so sorry this happened to you also with not just me but the many others whose entire lists were done like this. It is so sad and to find out when there is literally no time and possible people who can still help even if the items arrive after the holidays makes it more heartbreaking. Anyway, just wanted to show some love to you as a mom and for you to know that although I am on the needing end I care and am so sorry this happened. <3

  15. Dadishopeful, some things are on the way. Sadly, they won’t arrive until after Christmas. Also, the shoes for Steph weren’t on prime, so many there’s an alternative?

  17. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1A5LBJL4BJ6K2

    Shoes and Coats for my kids. The cheapest I could find on Amazon, a few things to snack on, and a few things my SO and I need. I want to at least get the kids the things they need. I had some jackets and stuff in yesterday, but when I chatted with Amazon about the arrival date, they told not everything was purchased and I asked to to delete what was not purchased. So their jackets and shoes we’re never purchased. I hope they do away with this “buy somewhere else” button again, because it’s hurting people by getting their hopes up.TIA

  18. W.P.
    Hi, I hope you were able to see my comment yesterday regarding the items you had purchased off my kiddos list as being received and a huge thank you as well! Also, thank you for helping with the diapers so much, I managed to fix the wipes to another kind that you mentioned were a 3rd party only along with re-adding the axe body spray that was one of the items as purchased but actually wasn’t. It just looks strange because it looks as if I need 2 and has 1, but only one is actually or originally needed or wished for. Anyway, I am not really expecting anything more at all. I just wanted to be sure you did know your items were received and how much I appreciate your kindness in helping in the first place and again with the diapers. I reposted last night for hopes of wipes mainly but also the axe spray is on the list as well. So much love and hugs for your kindness you have done for me fulfilling items from my list for my kids, thank you will never be enough and to see you here still helping is absolutely amazing! I truly wish you and yours have a wonderful holiday and warm and best wishes for the New Year!! <3 Thank you so much for having such a kind soul and making Christmas happen for so many in need this year! If I didn’t know any better I would honestly think you were Santa!!

  19. Serena23, Stitchress, and Jenny (of course!) count our family in the Grinch group. The 5 items on my list have been showing up as purchased, but after calling Amazon, nothing was actually purchased, just “reserved” in someone(s) cart. I am on hold with them now, and With you all working SO hard, I can’t imagine what a PITA this is for all of you! They gave me a name of the person who “reserved” it all in their cart, and Serene, I emailed that to you.

    Such a bummer that people keep doing this.

  20. Serine23,

    I love you! Literally thank you so much for everything you have done, I was going to wait until all was received to do a super huge thank you to everyone, share some pics etc. I had then realized after talking to Amazon about 3 items that were purchased but hadn’t received they were in a reserve – which I had no idea until I after I commented about the whole ordeal that so many people were affected this way. I had seen from another commented Lasha who added the anonymous comment with 4 list numbers which included mine saying they were filled, then went above and was shocked and heartbroken to see entire lists had been done this way. I was honestly just worried about the items from the sender that something went wrong somewhere and they get their money back or something to that effect. Then seeing all the upsetting comments my heart just sunk, I had been extremely lucky honestly as the items were one original gift for my son and the other 2 were diapers and wipes, W.P. was a saint and took care of the diapers!! Anyway, this is about you and what you have done for my kiddos – thank you is never going to be enough to express how much I am grateful for your help and love you have shown. Huge internet hugs to you for helping and being such a wonderful person! I really hope you and yours have a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year! <3

  22. I just came in at 3853 and know it’s a long shot, especially reading all these grinch stories. I am so sorry to everyone affected by them!!! Here is original post. Any help is appreciated!!!

    I’m sure this is WAY too late but the lady I work for just told me about ya’ll. I don’t have a sad story or traumatic event that has brought me here. I’m just a hard working single mommy with twin boys that are 8 and a 2 year old. I bust my butt to do it on my own. I don’t have family local so it’s just me and my boys and I wouldn’t trade it for anything! I work at a small group home and get to bring my kids with me. We get here on Thursday and stay until Saturday around the clock. My twins are a couple of the sweetest kiddos you could meet. We are still trying to figure out what the 2 year olds deal is because he is NOT sweet and to be quite honest he’s quite the little ass! But if there are any people left we would be extremely grateful! The boys chose to buy for the guys instead of each other so they each have a gift from me and that’s going to be it so far. I know I should be glad I can at least give them 1 but I feel like they deserve the world (minus the little one, he doesn’t deserve jack! 😂😂😂)
    http://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/AM7ERTEMRMFY

  23. The grinch stole my hope, I’ve posted several times since Ive found out the news from Amazon that my kiddos would not be having a Merry Christmas after all. None of my items were brought due to the fact that all the gifts were stated they were purchased by the same person and wasn’t. Breaks my heart to have hope and its snatch from you. Here’s my list yet again please if you can please! Post # 1869
    https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/107J6Y04CA7T/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1?_encoding=UTF8&type=wishlist

  25. To our food saint – some of it arrived today! I was able to make a nice meal with the rice and chicken! And the kiddos love the dried fruit. Thank you so very much, B!! 💕

  26. It has became a habit to check a couple times a day my amazon wish list (even after the grinch/problems with amazon struck and nothing was bought except mittens, thank you to whomever sent them). Yesterday my teenager’s coat was bought (thanks jenny) and today someone bought the math book my little guys been begging for (thank you so much). So thankful for all that has been bought and for the help. There are truly helpful people out there.

  28. Catching up on the grinch issues and it’s such a bummer to see this is even an issue. I hope it was ultimately an Amazon glitch and not a true grinch. If it was- that’s very disappointing and hopefully that gets sorted so the grinch at least understands their bad choice really affected other people. Alternatively, good karma is coming to those who helped others anyway they could. It’s really cool to see people are still trying to help those who were ‘grinched’ as to help as many kids and families possible. Jenny, I also made popcorn strings as a kid with my siblings and mom. Today my kids and I made paper chains to hang up. It was nice to be present to make those memories because a kind human helped ease the worry of food for this week. I’m forever grateful.

  29. Hi, I have updated the list with the last two items on there being Prime items so if anyone does feel it in their heart to see the graciousness to still give, the girls would love these items they picked out, even if they come a bit late. http://a.co/4zkdy6t
    Thank you!

  30. This is a very special family with five kids in my neighborhood. The list has been up pretty much from day 1, I had hoped that I would be able to get at least one gift for each of the kids as I’m not able to do anything for them, but for some reason, no one has chosen anything off their list. I have deleted most everything except what they say are the most important items. Even if you’re not able to help, I understand, I just want to put smiles on their faces. If I’m off on the numbers, or have done something wrong, please let me know.

    I had hoped I could get them the items on their wishlist, but due to unexpected heart surgery of my own, I’ve not been able to do anything. Please reach out to me with any questions. Here is a bit about each child. Betsy, 15, has Down Syndrome & loves to play in the puddles. It has been at least 3 years since she rec’d new coats or shoes. I see her out there playing in the rain all the time & her boots have holes in the soles. Her coat is 4 sizes too small Justin, age 16 is a special needs kid who likes to run and draw. He hasn’t had any new shoes or markers in years. Jamie age 13, has was born with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. He is always happy, but will never be a self-sufficient adult. He loves to draw. Amanda age 12, has several siblings that are differently-abled. She is responsible for all housework & she thought these items would help w/cleaning by keeping toilet paper off the floor since they can’t have a real cat. Eric, age 8, loves to play with legos and read books. He has autism and does not yet speak. I don’t know if he ever will, but legos and books take him into a new world that make his little face light up.

    Thank you for anything you are able to do for me. I really appreciate all of your consideration. http://a.co/c6irhy6

  31. Updated the wish list for just the things for my kids. They both really need shoes and a jacket so I added both of each thing and a thing of Cheez-its. I keep going back to make sure nothing else was being purchased and to also make sure prices hasn’t changed. But I tried to find the cheapest of everything. Shoee $20 and under, jackets $15, and Cheez-its grooves (their favorite) are $18 but that’s because it’s 4 packs and will probably last until school starts back.

    https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1A5LBJL4BJ6K2

  33. 0000 gift cards are not allowed, and it’s $35 each kids. Please update your list thank you

  34. Jessicah – Amazon just notified me that all of the items were delivered to you today at 11:19am. Merry Christmas!

  35. Is it to late to get a gift for my baby girl please I know Christmas is tomorrow so i know it will arrive after and thats fine. I thought i could replace my sadness about the mix up but sitting here on Christmas eve and I feel awful. As if I wanna climb back in bed and hid from shame.
    https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/107J6Y04CA7T?

  36. Kristen, thank you so much! I’m actually driving home now from taking the kids to the local nursing home to pass out Christmas cookies. Ended up being there for 4 hours lol, can’t wait to get home and get them wrapped up! Thank you so much again!!!!

  37. Hi again, I won’t comment again! I’m not trying to be a bother. Just reposting my list with a little back story. I’m currently supporting 8 kids all on my own. I love them with everything in me and would do anything for them. My list is https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/191X5J8K26N6E

    If you’d like to help me out I could even offer a drawing I’m return or something! Sorry for being a pest. Merry Christmas Eve!

  38. Hi I’m posting a wishlist for my neb. I was luckly enough to receive help. And he told me his situation single dad with 3 boys. So im gonna give it a shot! I know it probably wont get here in time Bjorn ut better then nothing. If not allowed please delete is it ok to use my account from amazon 4 him

  40. I originally posted this on Jenny’s lasted blog entry because I wasn’t sure if anyone would still be ch3ckijg comments or anything on this one but decided to give it a shot anyway because I’m desperate for info please help if you can!
    Merry christmas everyone! I know this isnt the original post for the names garfield miracle but if anyone could please help me out I’d REALLY appreciate it. I had made a wishful with a cuple items for for two little girls and one each for my two littlw boys. I hated doig it and having to ask for help but our family has had peobavly thw worst time we have wvwr been through. After alot of praying and hoping for a miracle someone purchased the gifts for my babies. I was so releived,grateful,and excited. Things are very tight right now and ive been able to get a few gifts for the girls and my oldest son has one gift and the youngest only has his stocking, I’ve been realy stressed about it and feel awful and like I’m going to be letting them down christmas morning even tho they are great kids and would never complain or make me feel bad about it. That kinda just makes me feel worse. lol anyway it kinda made me feel like it was going to kinda be OK cause those gifts on their wishlist were the things they had ask for and were really wanting aside from a phone or tablet my 3 oldest have been begging for. The wishlist was filled like thursday before last ive been very impatiently watching for ups or fedex every day. Ive tried to tell myself they will make it in time or that nothing went wrong and everythig is just backed up and taking longer to deliever cause of the holidays but its chriatmas eve and nothing has arrived. I’m heartbroken for my children honestly and even tho bills are paid and they have everything they need i feel like a failure. If anyone could help me find out who purchased their wishlist so i could contact them and see if something went wrong or if they could find out when they should arrive id be so grateful. I hope everyone has a merry christmas!
    I can be contacted by
    Tjwalters15@gmail.com
    Or on facebook im under
    Talia shae walters
    It shows a picture of my kids and husband on my banner and a photo of me as my profile picture.

  41. Tiff–I’m so sorry! I just received a notice that the beanie was delayed. It now says it will be delivered between the 25-29. I really wanted and hoped that it would arrive in time. Again, my apologies. They had guaranteed delivery by the 24th. 🙁

  43. Merry Christmas to everyone, had a rough morning but only because sleeping in, lol. I am not used to my 4 yr old sleeping till 9:30, my older kiddos were up already but pretended to be asleep. They told me they had basically both been keeping watch to see if I would come out of the bedroom and put some gifts under the table with the cute tree deco we have- had me laughing so hard tears were coming out hearing that they had taken shifts past 4am doing this. We did not have a actual tree this year- totally content with that, my little one is level 3 on the spectrum and last year knocked the tree down a billion times and even with the stand being held by string and bricks he managed to break it. So was not doing it this year just had some wall decorations he made from school on the walls and this little red glitter tree. My phone is not working right at all and wanted to share some pics or a video of them opening what was bought for them by wonderful kind souls. So, I will have to do a sort of re-do of what they opened today. I am so thankful for having so many people care for others in need of help in many ways and to be one of the recipients of the kind givers this year. I just like several were also affected by the grinch but only 3 items on the list and another kind soul who already provided for my kiddos took care of one of them. I am blessed and forever grateful for you all being so selfless and loving to strangers. I also am very lucky to have received a gift for each child as it is honestly. Despite the grinch, the items left on the small list I did have for my kids 2 were needed items and 1 was body spray for my oldest son. As I mentioned one special Santa did give more love to us and purchased one of the needs which was diapers for my lil guy! I am also saddened by those who were affected by this grinch in much bigger ways than myself and feel horrible even mentioning myself being included as my children had been gifted before I even realized the items purchased were not. I had came back to mention the issue after speaking to Amazon and seen so many other comments from parents/guardians who had been affected with this on their entire list. My heart sank reading so many comments having this happen to them. There was a mother here Lasha I believe was the name who was affected by this individual in a big way but within their comment had maintained to also have such a positive outlook through the negative. My heart goes out to everyone who was in need this year helped or not, I know how hard the struggle is and wish that this New Year will turn things around for us all in a big way. I hope to not be in the same position now next holiday season because this event is so wonderful just being available for families to come and ask for help when some places do not have resources available such as this. I want to be here next year to help even if I cannot purchase a gift I want to help with the wonderful moderators who really worked so hard to be sure each family in need were being noticed no matter when they came here. They had been on here many hours and had taken a lot of negativity as well but came back strong and kept going till the end which I really do not know if the end was an end other than today being actually Christmas. I love you all and Jenny thank you so much for keeping this event open, I know you say each year you are not sure it will happen again and this was the 9th year you kept it going along with so many kind givers and moderators organizing just like Santa’s little helper. I hope everyone has a beautiful holiday and best wishes in the New Year <3

  44. Kristen…..
    Thank you so much! I wish there was a way I could send you picture so you could see how happy you made my boys! I appreciate you more than you’ll ever know for making our Christmas amazing!!!

  45.         <pre><code>        Could anyone help me find someone’s list? A dear friend who works at the group home my cousin is at, tried killing herself last night. My ex’s mom runs the home she works for and we became (I thought) good friends. I actually suggested her come here and post and I believe she did. She has twin boys about 8-9 and a little girl. Could anyone help me find her list or does anyone know the easiest way to? I was helped here this year as well (Jessica Ratliff) and her 2 boys are staying w me until mommy gets better and I’ll have the little girl when her grandma goes back to work. I’m hoping to try to find her list so I can try to get things similar for her kids in the near future (fingers crossed) Because of this page I was able to give her boys each a pack of socks that had been sent to my sons from an angel here and I went to dollar tree to get them a few small things to open since I had nothing here for them and apparently their mom wasn’t able to pull Christmas off. I would really appreciate any help trying to locate her list!

    (Is this it? Is her name Elizabeth? You said she has a little girl and in her comment she says she has all boys though. https://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/AM7ERTEMRMFY ~ Jenny)

  46. Jenny, I’m not sure. It won’t let me see anything about her. But her baby is a little girl, she has twin boys who are 8 I think (maybe 9?) unless I’ve literally been calling this little boy a girl the entire almost 2 years 😂😂😂 her (his) name is Cameron and she (he) is freaking adorable! Granted, we are mostly texting and phone call friends but surely as much as we talk, which is at least a few times a week, she would’ve been like “bitch quit saying she”. I really hope this isn’t her!!!!! I’m going to feel like the biggest douchebag ever! I’ll never go visit Charlie (my cousin who lives where she works) again! Is there a way to check the email address? I have her email, or address? I could give them to you if there is some way to confirm?

  47. It has to be her’! I just went and added to my cart and it gave me the option to choose shipping and hers is in Eaton, OH. There’s no way there’s another Elizabeth with twin boys the same age and us not know it. Pardon me while I load her boys up and run away! I am so embarrassed!!!!!

  48. Merry Christmas and a Happy New year to you and your family. I don’t know if anyone is still reading this, but we’d appreciate help with the three items below. Thanks so much for all you’ve done to help people this year.

    http://a.co/eKwyYtS

  49. Jenny, thank you so much for your help finding her. I’m not completely crazy…. Cameron stays with his dad mont weekends and she keeps her sisters little girl who is only 3 months younger quite a bit so I’ve combined these 2 into 1 child apparently 😂😂. I can’t log in on her account but if anyone purchased anything please let me know so I can try to keep an eye out at her apartment.
    She will be checking into haven behavioral health to hopefully get the help she’s needed for several months. Cameron will be with his father and I’m going to hopefully keep the twins as long as I can figure out a way to. CPS has officially opened a case though so I’m not sure how long they’ll let me, I’m not sure how all that works. I’m not a pray-er but if anyone still reading is please send them up for these kids and Elizabeth! Good vibes, mojo, whatever it is. The twins’ dad has always been a piece of crap so I’m so afraid of them getting thrown into the system. They’re such good kids and already going through enough.

  50. Gaaah! I received a notice from Amazon that the STAR PROJECTION LIGHT I ordered for a family on the list was cancelled. Just…CANCELLED! I don’t remember for which family this was intended, and the information for the wish list is no longer associated with the order in Amazon. I will try to fish through the wish list posts again and reorder something else, but if this rings a bell with you, please reply. It was the only item purchased from that particular list. I AM SO SORRY!!!

  51. Found your list again and the remaining share-able items (sloth book, sculpting clay, towels) are on their way. So sorry this is all coming after Christmas. – Cassie

  52. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1A5LBJL4BJ6K2

    Talked to Amazon about the items that were purchased on my wishlist, but apparently, the grinch struck again. So I just told them to remove the items that we’re coming off my wishlist and they did. Apparently, it was my sons shoe’s They had went up in price by $30, so that’s probably why. Anyways, I added more to this list which is about the same price, just a different color. I removed a lot of unnecessary things as well. Since Christmas is over, I doubt if anyone sees this, but I’ll make my my “for real” last post. Lol.

    With all that being said, Christmas turned out a whole lot better because of this blog and to all the ones that made it happen, thank you. My kiddos were so happy with the gifts they received

  53. #4051 Cassie- oh no! 🙁 I told them Santa got them the star projection thing. Thank yo uso much for helping out! They will love what they get and I will come up with a story about Santa having to change what he brought 🙂

  54. I’ll be doing thank you notes tonight. The kids absolutely love their gifts! Just wanted to let the person know who purchased the food that some of the items haven’t come in. Just in case it says delivered on your end I want to make sure you could a credit for them. If they’re still in transit I’ll keep my eye out for it (the oatmeal, cereal, and fruit strips; and Jenny’s book). The other food arrived and it’s been such a big help. 💕

  55. Not sure if anyone is still staying updated on this page… Just thought I’d let you (whoever filled my wishlist) know that none of the items were received. Not a single item. Not sure why this happened. Even after my list says (has 1) under each item. Nne came through. Hope whoever it is can make a claim and at least get their money back.

  57. Can anyone help with food even order a pizza for my family? We don’t have any food and I want be able to get any food until the 6th.

  58. Hi jenny this is post 2026 I never received the items that were purchased from my wishlist. I don’t want the secret santa to just loose their money.

  60. @Jessicah – I would love to see pics of your happy boys! My email is kristensmith dot 417 at gmail. Not sure if you’ll see this. I’m so happy the gifts arrived in time for Christmas morning! ❤️❤️

  61. I want to thank Jenny for the coat for my teenage son we got it late yesterday, he opened it right away and was thrilled. We also got the math book my little guy had on his list, not sure who sent it but thank you so much. He has been wanting that for so long. Thank you so much for helping us out (the mittens, the book and the jacket), although we were one of the many people on here who were victims of the grinch we very much appreciate what all we did receive and are very thankful to those that helped before and after the grinch struck. Hope everyone had a happy holiday.Thanks again

  63. Dadishopeful, I’m kind of bummed that you didn’t take time to let anyone know if the items came and were appreciated.

  64. Christmas was different this year. The presents under the tree were few. The girls had a present each, a new book and a game to share. The baby had his shiny new fire truck with his first fisher price little people.
    Without you gifters all they would have had what was what l could get them, some tangerines and a little candy.
    It was a wonderful Christmas. They loved their presents.
    We read the new books, baked some cookies and put an old jigsaw puzzle together. We made the missing pieces out of wrapping paper and then played twister. Even the baby joined in even though he refused to follow the rules. We had spaghetti for Christmas dinner, which is fine because small children love them some spaghetti. It truly isn’t the sheer number of presents that make Christmas special. It’s that they’re not forgotten. That they get a special something to unwrap on Christmas morning.
    I know that it’s unlikely anyone will see this but your gifts have not gone unnoticed or unappreciated.
    It meant everything to me.
    Thank you.

  65. So, after 2 hours and 7 different customer service representatives. I finally resolved my issue with all 9 of the never received items… Only 1 was actually purchased. The beanie… And I was given a credit to my accpunt to order another…. The other 8 items were all added to someone’s cart, which automatically sent my items to “Purchased” due to them being reserved. However, this person never continued with the transaction. The order was never placed. So, unfortunately this was more of a let down than anything. I promised my children a Christmas that I couldn’t deliver. And we fell through the cracks once again… Here’s hoping to a better Holiday next year. Thanks to all you angels out there for putting this together. 💜 Bless you all.

  66. Wanted to say Thank You to the people that got my daughter the paw patrol wooden puzzle and the LED blue dog she loves them thank you so much

  67. Tiff–It looks like the beanie was lost. It arrived in the US on the 27th and hasn’t been updated. Amazon is now saying it’s missing. I still want your daughter to have something fun, so if you see this could you please leave a message and add something else on your wish list and I will send it?
    I’m so sorry this happened!!

  68. Hi Tiff–I wrote to the seller and it supposedly is going to be delivered soon. It’s been tracked to Shreveport so hopefully there is still a chance it will arrive. Amazon doesn’t have any of the current information. I feel terrible it’s so late, but I’m glad it was located and it should arrive in a couple of days.

  69. I hope is not too late, I didn’t see an answer to my previous comment but I’m just hoping for help here, we didn’t get Xmas for my kid cause our paycheck is late again he did got a Xmas press the from his grandparents tho, we’re just trying to get him what he needs and a little surprise… I hope we’re still able to get some help…?
    Anything helps, doesn’t matter if it is used, thanks in advance…
    Hi. Check out this list: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/38V4UV0QXTGVT

  70. The blog you shared here is very informative and nice. Toy guns are toys which imitate real guns but are designed for children to play with. From hand-carved wooden replicas to factory-produced pop guns and cap guns, toy guns come in all sizes, prices, and materials such as wood, metal, plastic or any combination thereof. Many newer toy guns are brightly colored and oddly shaped to prevent them from being mistaken for real firearms.

  73. We’ll all be home for Christmas!
    If the fates allow.. this will be the first Christmas in four years that me and my two daughters ages 10 and almost 9..will finally be reunited after being displaced by disaster. God bless you all for being generous and kind .for fulfilling wish lists of those less fortunate. You are earning an eternal reward..
    https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/375RIS06KZTGA?ref_=wl_share

  74. Melodi Sorge
    Tucumcari, New Mexico
    Marian and Madelyn (my daughters,)
    Age 10. Age 8(almost 9!)

    We’ll all be home for Christmas!
    If the fates allow.. this will be the first Christmas in four years that me and my two daughters ages 10 and almost 9..will finally be reunited after being displaced by disaster. God bless you all for being generous and kind .for fulfilling wish lists of those less fortunate. You are earning an eternal reward..
    https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/375RIS06KZTGA?ref_=wl_share

  76. Genuinely no matter if someone doesn’t understand then its up to other visitors that they will assist, so
    here it occurs.

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