Suffice it to say that 2021 has not been kind to Ashley Marchand.
In the last three months, the 31-year-old single mom has had three life-altering episodes: two separate traffic crashes and a 10-day quarantine period after her 9-year-old daughter, Haylee Murdock, tested positive for COVID-19.
The series of misfortunes have left the 2008 Waverly High School graduate with two totaled cars, injuries that prevent her from working, mounting medical bills, no sources of income and a pending eviction notice.
With a fractured scapula, a broken foot and a concussion suffered in one of the crashes, the prospect of Marchand going back to work anytime soon is unlikely.
Not a great situation, especially with the holidays right around the corner.
The string of bad luck began in August, when a crash at Seventh and Superior streets occurred while Marchand was on the job as a pizza delivery worker. The two-vehicle mishap totaled her 2012 Volkswagen, for which she still owes about $2,000. Marchand escaped injury.
People are also reading…
Life threw the family another curve in September, when Haylee, a fourth grade student at Belmont Elementary School, tested positive for COVID-19. That meant a 14-day absence from school for Haylee, and 10 costly days off work for her quarantined mom.
Mother and daughter were just getting back on their feet when a third hardship hammered the struggling family. They were en route to Haylee’s school on the morning of Oct. 25 when Ashley’s car collided head-on with another vehicle at 17th and K streets before striking a utility pole.
Mother and daughter were both taken to Bryan West Campus, where Marchand spent more than a week undergoing treatment. Haylee was treated and released, returning to school two days later.
The collision totaled Marchand's 2008 Ford Fusion. She owes more than $7,000 on that car.
The challenges have created a cloud of uncertainty going forward. The beleaguered single mom, on the verge of an eviction notice after falling behind on her apartment rent, has moved with her daughter into Marchand's parents' home in north Lincoln. She’s hopeful that the job she had to leave will still be there when she’s able to return to work.
"I can’t drive and I can’t lift anything, so I’m not too employable right now,” she said in a phone interview last weekend. “Hopefully, my injuries are temporary and it’s just a matter of time before I’m back at work.”
Staff at the Belmont Community Center, where Haylee is enrolled in the after-school program, shared Marchand’s story to be featured in the Lincoln Journal Star's annual Thanks for Giving drive, which invites readers to donate to those who need a little help around the holidays.
This year, 19 agencies and nonprofits submitted more than 50 requests.
For Marchand, gift cards to Target, Walmart, grocery stores or gas stations would help meet some needs. Any gift cards to restaurants or fun Lincoln activities would allow she and her daughter to spend quality time as a family. Contact Karen at 402-477-8854 or karen.french@belmontcommunitycenter.org if you can help.
Lincoln-area residents who need a helping hand this season
Lincoln Housing Authority
Contact Courtney at 402-434-5529 or email Courtney@l-housing.com
Sasha is a single mother of three girls and two boys, ages 3 through 14. Having completed schooling, she has worked hard to pay off student debt in hopes of becoming financially stable, but funds have been tight. She works full time. She says that even though it’s not always easy, she wouldn’t trade being a mother for the world. She would appreciate receiving socks, hats, gloves, and/or toiletries.
Jessica, whose daughter will soon be turning 2, is working full time, going to school and pursuing her CNA. She would appreciate winter coats for herself, large or XL, and her daughter, size 2T-3T; a winter hat and boots for her daughter, size 6 in toddler, and some groceries during the holiday season.
Kathy, a single mother of five children, ages 4-12, earned her GED and is working on an associate’s degree. She also picked up a job to help provide for her children during the holidays. Kathy is disabled, so things that may not seem difficult to most, can be extremely difficult for her. Kathy needs clothing for her children, a winter coat for herself, food for the holidays and possibly some toys.
Fresh Start
Contact Meg at Fresh Start at 402-475-7777 or megd@freshstarthome.org
Amy came to Fresh Start after leaving a domestic violence situation. She is rebuilding her life and recently started a full-time job. She would like gas cards to help her get to work. Amy loves cooking and would like a new set of pans and baking sheets for when she moves out of Fresh Start.
Sally resided at Fresh Start earlier this year. She successfully completed the program, moved into her own apartment, and is participating in community support services. She just welcomed her first child and is adjusting well to parenthood. She would like diapers, a new set of dishes, and Walmart cards to buy additional items for her family.
Patricia just graduated parole and is maintaining her sobriety. She is working full time and pursuing her GED. She would like grocery gift cards, a new bath towel set and new queen-size bedding for when she moves into her own apartment.
Linda recently moved out of Fresh Start and into her own apartment. She celebrated one year of sobriety in October. She is furnishing her new apartment and would like new pots and pans, a new set of glasses, and new silverware or cooking utensils.
Fresh Start, a transitional shelter for women who are experiencing homelessness, helps residents become self-sufficient by developing a goal plan that includes securing income, finding safe housing, and addressing health needs. They always need toilet paper, grocery and gas cards, cleaning supplies, feminine hygiene products and laundry detergent.
St. Monica's
Contact Melissa Aldrich at 402-441-3768 or melissa.aldrich@stmonicas.com
Kristinehas a daughter Zula, age 3, and is eight months pregnant with her second daughter. They’ve lived in a long-term residential treatment center since July. Kristine is graduating in February. She needs clothes for Zula (size 3T-4T) shoes (9T-10T), socks, hygiene products and drinking cups. Kristine needs diapers and wipes for the baby to come, infant clothing, hygiene products for baby and baby bottles.
Dawn, a single mom in treatment, and her 5-year-old son, Leo, recently lost his father and are trying to heal. They lost their home in March and will be starting over when Dawn graduates treatment at the end of the month. They’re getting an apartment and seeking a fresh start. Leo needs socks (size 7/8), shoes (13), markers and coloring books, drinking cups, hair and hygiene products, clothes (pants size 8, shirts 10/12, hats and gloves. He would also like a remote-controlled vehicle for Christmas.
Joanna Madrigal, 34, is a single mother of four: Isaiah, Leighlon, Loraly and Robbie (ages 16, 13, 12 & 10). Joanna has battled with addiction and trauma for over 15 years. Coming to Lincoln and entering a women’s long-term treatment facility has been a life-altering experience. The family could use winter clothing: Robbie (size 10/12 boys), Loraly (juniors S/M), Leighlon (youth L) and Isaiah (adults M).
Voices of Hope
Contact Yaquelin Cisneros at yaquelin@voicesofhopelincoln.org
Laura,32, and her four young children relocated to Lincoln after fleeing from sexual abuse. Laura does not have a support system in Lincoln. She spent her savings on relocating and is worried about providing Christmas gifts for her children. She needs store gift cards to buy gifts for her children along with gas gift cards to help stretch her paychecks as much as possible.
Sandra,27, was sexually assaulted by her landlord, forcing her to break her lease, seek a protection order, and try to heal from the trauma. Having had to search for a new place to live, she has spent her savings on a deposit and the first month’s rent. Sandra seeks help with household necessities such as laundry detergent, toilet paper, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, dish soap, and cleaning products.
Scarlet,36, and her 4-year-old twins (a boy and a girl) recently left the home they shared with their Scarlet's ex-partner and abuser. Scarlet’s abuser ruined many of Scarlet’s and the twins’ belongings by pouring bleach on them before they left. Scarlet seeks support to replace items that have been ruined. The items requested include gift cards to buy bedding for her and the twins, winter clothing, and household items.
Victoria,25, left her abusive husband and applied for a protection order that was served. Victoria’s abuser continually violates the protection order and has been stalking her and leaving threatening objects on her porch. Victoria notifies the police, but he disappears before they arrive. Victoria needs security cameras for her home to capture the violations of the protection orders.
Tabitha Meals on Wheels
Richard is a disabled veteran whose physical limitations prevent him from being able to prepare meals. He’s a great candidate for Meals on Wheels but can’t afford the service. $43.75 provides Richard with a week’s worth of warm, nutritious meals, plus a daily visit and well-being check by a volunteer. Contact Susie at 402-486-8509 or Susan.Egr@Tabitha.org.
Susan, a widow and retired teacher, lives alone and no longer drives. She wants to remain in her home, so she relies on Meals on Wheels for a daily meal, although she cannot afford it. $6.25 per day gives Susan the independence she desires through a delivered meal and a friendly visit from a volunteer. Contact Susie at 402-486-8509 or Susan.Egr@Tabitha.org.
Cedars
Contact Mandy Suing at 402-437-8815 or asuing@cedarskids.org.
Logan,20, is experiencing homelessness and has had to couch-surf at friends’ houses just to have a safe place to spend the night. He had a difficult childhood, but he did maintain a small group of close friends who have supported him. Logan is also a father to a young daughter, but due to his homelessness, he does not get to spend as much time with her as he would like. Cedars has helped Logan find a safe place that will allow for his daughter to come stay with him at times. He would be grateful for cooking utensils, dishes, athletic clothing (adult size L or XL), and gift cards to Walmart and Best Buy.
MonicaԻJuliorecently immigrated to Nebraska from their home country with their two children, ages 2 years and 4 months. They are grateful to live in the U.S., but still face challenges while they adjust. Cedars has helped the family receive access to parenting resources, quality child care, and the essentials for their new home. The family would be grateful for any additional help around the holidays. They need a vacuum, pots and pans, queen-size bedding/comforter set and baby wipes.
AliciaԻMorganare providing supportive care in their home for two teenage girls who needed a safe and stable living environment. They also have three teenagers of their own. The teenage girls have been through experiences that would be difficult to navigate without supportive foster parents like Alicia and Morgan. CEDARS has connected them to community resources and provided them with basic necessities. This family would benefit from an air fryer, kitchen dish set (plates and bowls), and gift cards to grocery stores and coffee chains.
Astridhas five children (ages 13, 10, 7, 5, and 2 months). She does not have any family in town and lacks a local support system. One of Astrid’s children has a developmental disability which requires additional care. Her three middle children are enrolled in a CEDARS Community Learning Center. CEDARS has continued to help the family by providing before- and after-school care, behavioral support, and clothing. This family would appreciate a vacuum, bakeware set, diapers (any size), art supplies, and school-age board games.
Lancaster County Adult Drug Court
Contact Ashley at 531-207-5065 or aborchers@lancaster.ne.gov
Billused the treatment tools from Drug Court to remain sober through some traumatic events. He is a father who could use help to buy gifts for his children, ages 10 to 16 (all boys).
Community Correctionsneeds self-care items for men and women entering its program, including toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body soap and grocery gift cards.
The Bridge Behavioral Health
Contact Stacie at 402-477-3951 extension 106 or development@thebridgenebraska.org
Andrew,35, is a resilient soul battling addiction with unwavering determination. His path has been marked by struggles, but his strength in seeking recovery is truly inspiring. As he rebuilds his life, having access to clean, comfortable clothes can boost his self-esteem and help him take one more step toward his recovery. Andrew is a size XL and can use a new wardrobe including a winter coat, shirts, hoodie, pants, socks and underwear.
Jennifer,30, is seeking help for her prescription pill addiction. In her quest to build an addiction-free life, Jennifer has found solace and self-expression through art. She would love art supplies and adult coloring books to help fill the gaps between educational groups and therapy sessions.
HopeSpoke
Contact Suzy Thompson at 402-475-7666 or sthompson@hopespoke.org
Alex,5, sees a HopeSpoke mental health therapist at his elementary school. Mom works to care for Alex and his three older sisters, but the family can’t afford many basic needs; at school, Alex often reports that he didn’t have dinner the night before. Clothes (size 4T-5T, shoes size 12) and toys would brighten Alex’s holidays. He likes dinosaurs, Spiderman, cars, and books. The family also could use gift cards to Walmart for food, clothes, and to buy holiday gifts for his siblings. Contact HopeSpoke for specific needs for Alex’s mom and sisters.
BrothersTom,13, andJoe,12, both receive mental health therapy through HopeSpoke to deal with grief. Their mom died unexpectedly during COVID; Dad has remarried and there are five children in their blended household. Money is tight and food goes fast. The boys would love model paint sets, Minecraft and other Lego sets, and a family pass to Morrill Hall. Both boys wear men’s size XL and could use T-shirts, pants, sweatpants and hoodies. Their family also could use gift cards to grocery and discount stores. Other family members have needs as well; contact HopeSpoke for details.
Silashas graduated ahead of schedule from HopeSpoke’s therapeutic group home and will be living on his own for the first time. He turns 18 in December, has a job, and wants to go to college, saying that for the first time he feels hopeful about his future. Silas grew up in a chaotic home environment and has no family support, so anything to help him set up his new apartment would be appreciated, particularly gift cards for groceries and discount stores.
Belmont Community Center
Contact Karen French at 402-477-8854 or at karen.french@belmontcommunitycenter.org
TheDredge familyhas spent a third of this year in and out of hospitals supporting their 4-year-old son who has a rare spinal condition. This family of five is in constant motion with two working parents, their 6- and 4-year-old sons, and a daughter, nearly 2. They spend a lot of time traveling to and from health care appointments for their son. Gift cards to Target, Walmart, grocery stores, or gas stations would help meet their needs and prepare for the holidays. Gift cards to restaurants or family-fun activities are also welcome as a way for them to spend quality family time.
Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach
Contact Leanne Pelser at Leanne.Pelser@MTKO.org or 402-817-0163
Marybecame a regular dining room guest after falling on hard times. She and her 10-year-old daughter recently moved into a new home. Money is short for the holidays. Mary’s daughter doesn’t want to ask for anything for Christmas so as to not burden her mom, but she could use black or navy-blue leggings for school (size 14) and a pair of crocs (women’s size 6). An art lover, Mary’s daughter could use a three-tiered rolling cart to hold art supplies. Mary’s daughter loves the Makit Takit Craft Studio. A gift certificate there would provide great quality time for both mother and daughter. Mary’s daughter also likes to play with makeup and have a spa day with her mom at home. Mary would be grateful for any gifts for her daughter for the holidays to make their first Christmas in their new home a merry one.
Kennedyand her 4-year-old son have been experiencing homelessness for almost a year. They recently moved into a new apartment. Kennedy would like to be able to decorate the house for her son for Christmas. The family needs a Christmas tree, lights and ornaments, a couple of candles, and a welcome sign for the front door of her new home. All white, all red, and all green strings of lights are preferred. Kennedy’s son loves all things Paw Patrol and superheroes. He needs winter clothes size 4/5 and a toddler bed and bedding.
Johnis a devoted single father facing a challenging holiday season. He is the sole caregiver of his 13-year-old daughter,Emily. John's days are a juggling act between his full-time job and ensuring Emily's well-being. His work is not glamorous, but he takes pride in it as it puts food on the table and a roof over their heads. John often has to work long hours to make ends meet, which leaves little time for leisure, let alone holiday preparations. John is determined to make Emily's Christmas unforgettable. He searches for community programs and charities that can help with gifts, hoping to fulfill Emily's dreams. John also sacrifices his own needs and indulgences to set aside a small budget for the holiday season. He would love gift cards to make his daughter’s holiday wishes come true. Emily would love any Hello Kitty items, pajama pants (size M), body sprays and perfumes, and hoodies (size M).
Lutheran Family Services
Contact Deanna Borg at 402-968-6580 or deanna.borg@onelfs.org
Tina, a single mom, has been caring for two foster children, ages 5 and 8, without assistance for the past few years. After a difficult year that started with the death of her dad and included fighting an autoimmune disease, multiple surgeries and being unable to work for long periods of time, their family could use gas and grocery gift cards and the opportunity for youth activities through a membership to the YMCA or funds for dance classes.
AgrandpaԻgrandmawho have guardianship of three of their grandchildren recently took in two more little ones, ages 2 and 7. They need gift cards for food and gas, as well as hygiene care, cleaning supplies, toilet paper and paper towels.
Agrandmotherwho has guardianship of her granddaughters, ages 8 and 9, and is working toward adopting them could use some extra cheer. A recent foot injury has impacted her ability to work, and they are struggling with food, shelter and clothing. Gift cards for groceries, funds for rent, and clothing for the girls would be appreciated. The older granddaughter wears size 10/12 and a size 4Y shoe; the younger one wears size 7/8 and a 3Y shoe.
Katrina, 25, and her younger brotherMichael, 10, lost their mom earlier this year and moved to Nebraska due to safety concerns in their previous location. With assistance from Lutheran Family Services, Katrina is working toward permanent guardianship of her brother and has secured safe, affordable, permanent housing. They would love a dresser, a queen-size bed, vacuum, electric dryer, kitchen table and chairs, sheets and towels, a coat rack, Christmas tree, paper products, cleaning supplies and funds for car repair.
Agrandmotherwho is caring for her grandson needs help after the loss of his mother in November. The grandson, age 11, could use clothes, winter boots and toys to play with his dogs. He wears a size M in men’s pants and shirts and men’s 5½ for winter boots. The grandmother needs utility help, grocery vouchers, cat/dog food and rental assistance.
Center For People In Need
Contact Krista at 402-476-4357 ext. 164 or kraastad@cfpin.org or Kathy at 402-476-4357 ext. 241 or knajjar@cfpin.org
Sarais a college student finishing classes before entering the nursing program at SCC. She is a POP Scholarship recipient and will be the first in her family to graduate college. She works in a hospital part time. She has a son, 9, and will be moving into an apartment this month. She would love a desk and desk chair to accommodate her studies. She needs bath and kitchen towels, kitchen utensils, a set of dishes, vacuum and everyday household items. Her son needs a winter coat 14/16 (favorite color is blue), winter gloves, boots size 5 and a sled. He loves Harry Potter and Pokemon. They enjoy movies, Morrill Hall, the Children’s Museum, pizza and McDonald’s. Gift cards (gas, Walmart, Amazon) would help a lot.
Tarais in the center's EduTech program, pursuing her data analytics certificate. Tara is a single mom with a 13-year-old son who has helped her set up and understand Google Docs and Google Drive. Tara has had health problems and was living in the City Mission, but they finally have their own place. Tara faces several upcoming surgeries and physical therapy. Her son is a swimmer and needs athletic clothing in small-medium men’s sizes. He would like a BlendJet2 with a USB, a large fluffy microfiber bath sheet, a small TV for his room to hook up a video game and a bike. Tara wants a booster cable that doesn’t require a second vehicle, in case she needs to jump-start her car, and gift cards to LaundryLand, a gas gift card, household cleaners and personal hygiene items.
Beckyis in the new EduTech program, pursuing her project management certificate. A single mother of five, she would like candles or yarn for crocheting. She said her kids always need clothes and she isn’t able to give them many toys. She could use a gas gift card, household cleaners and hygiene items. The kids’ wish lists: girl (age 9), size 14/16, loves O.M.G. and L.O.L. dolls; girl (7), size 10/12, loves L.O.L. dolls; boy (4), size 7, loves PJ Masks character set; boy (2), size 3T, anything that involves music; boy (7 months), size 12 months, baby toys.
YWCA Lincoln
Contact Halea at 402-309-4153 or halea@ywcalincoln.org
Jackie, a mother of five, has been struggling since being sick. Her husband is not able to work due to having to care for the children. The children are an 8-year-old girl (shoes, size 1 youth; clothes, size 8-9), a 9-year-old girl (shoes 3 youth, clothes 10), a 10-year-old boy (shoes 5 youth, clothes M/10-12), an 11-year-old girl (shoes 5 youth, clothes youth S) and a 16-year-old girl (shoes 7.5 women’s, clothes women’s M/18). The children also need bedding comforters, pillows and pillow cases.
Sarah, a mother of three, has been struggling to make ends meet with one income. The children are a 15-year-old boy (shoe size 8 men’s, clothing size men’s M), a 13-year-old girl (shoes 6 youth, clothing 14-16) and a 12-year-old boy (shoes youth 7, clothing 10-12). They also need comforters for their bed, pillows and pillow cases, and the children need jeans, sweat pants and tops. The 13-year-old girl also likes makeup and the boys like cologne.
Carol Yoakum Family Resource Center/Arnold CLC
Sarahis a single mom to three teenage boys, one of whom is disabled. She took time off work to take care of her father, who was battling cancer this past year. After he died, Sarah went back to work but got into a serious car crash. A long recovery resulted in her losing her job, and due to the injuries, she is not able to perform all duties in her current job and her hours have been cut. She would love to give her boys some gifts for the holidays but most of the gift programs focus on younger children. The family would like gift cards to Walmart, T.J.Maxx and Best Buy. Two of her boys share a room and would like matching twin beds and black bed frames to match their dresser. The family could also use a new stainless-steel refrigerator to match their stove. Contact Dayna at 402-436-1120 ext. 5.
Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department
Lila,31, is a single mother of four children— two boys, ages 2 and 11; and two girls, ages 8 and 6. She recently left her husband because of an abusive relationship. She is trying to find a new place to live and will need household essentials such as bedding/ linens, kitchen supplies, and towels. The family could use gift cards to help with this process.Please call or text Amity at LLCHD, 402-310-9145.
Ariel and her 2-year-old son, Adrian, live in a shelter. For now, Ariel can’t work and does not qualify for benefits. She uses the bus to go to free-food locations, but she would love to have fresh food to cook for Adrian. After a traumatic event, Ariel, who receives special education services, developed high anxiety. The family could use fresh food or Walmart gift cards. Adrian needs winter clothes and Ariel would love a vacuum, walker toy for Adrian, sensory toys, bed blankets, a pressure cooker, exercise items, and word-search books for adults. Sizes: Adrian winter clothes and snug-fit footed pajamas size 2T, shoes 6. Ariel S-M hoodie, M T-shirt/jogger pants, warm/snow boots size 7. Contact Dinorah at 402-432-0094 or dgarcia@lincoln.ne.gov.
Stephanie has a son Dany, almost 3, and 8-month-old twins, Lucas and Noah. Only the twins qualify for benefits. The family could use fresh food or grocery store gift cards, blankets for mom and children, sippy cups, cookware set items, personal self-care items for mom and toys for the kids. Sizes: Winter clothes for Lucas and Noah, size 12 months, and size 3 shoes. Dany, 3T and size 7 shoes. Stephanie, M-L hoodies, L leggings and T-shirts, and size 6 shoes. Contact Dinorah Garcia at 402-432-0094 or dgarcia@lincoln.ne.gov.
Sandy is 8 months pregnant and recently arrived in Lincoln, currently living with her older sister. Sandy’s due date is mid-December, and she is worried about having everything that her baby boy will need. Sandy could use a car seat, a crib or bassinet, a swing or bouncy seat, baby clothes, a diaper bag, and diapers. Sandy needs size-medium winter clothes, a coat, blankets and self-care products. She wears a size 7 shoe. Contact Dinorah at 402-432-0094 or dgarcia@lincoln.ne.gov.
The HUB Central Access Point for Young Adults
Contact Rose Hood-Buss at 402-471-8526 and rose@hublincoln.org or Lindsey Drake at ldrake@hublincoln.org
Becky,18, is a high school senior who is graduating a semester early and will be attending Southeast Community College in the spring. She has been supporting herself by working while also attending high school. She does not have family in the state and comes from a non-traditional support system. She lives with her sister, but will be required to move before the holidays. She would like some things to make her new place a home, clothing items and some hygiene products. Lotion, socks (small or medium) sweatpants (medium or large; preferably gray, black, or neutral colors), feminine hygiene products, a blanket, and school supplies (notebooks, colored highlighters, pens).
Georgia,21, is mom to a 5-year-old boy. Georgia has completed training to obtain her CNA, so she can find employment and housing, as they are currently homeless. She plans to return to school. She loves to write and wants to be a published author of books that can help and inspire people who are struggling. Georgia and her son would like gift cards to Target or Walmart to help with food and clothes, as well as books.
Augustine,18, has been navigating the GED path and is close to finishing. He has set goals to obtain his GED and go to trade school. He is moving into his own place and could use household items, cleaning supplies, a vacuum cleaner, laundry baskets and gift cards.
Gabby,19, is a high school senior who will graduate this year. She is also a mom to two little boys (ages 3 & 1) and works as much as she can. She juggles most of this on her own, with little support from her mom and little transportation She is moving into a place of her own and needs household items. The boys could use winter clothes, coats, hats, and gloves (3T & 18M). Gabby could also use winter clothes, a coat (size small), and Uber gift cards.
Keeley,17, recently moved to Lincoln and is a mom to 3-year-old twin boys. She is going to high school and working two jobs. She is staying with an aunt until she graduates. She plans to pursue a cosmetologist license along with a business degree, as she loves to do hair. She and the boys could benefit from winter clothes (4T & medium in women’s). She would like gift cards to Mid K Hair and Wigs and the boys would like Paw Patrol toys and books.