The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, but as we all know not everyone is fortunate to have a safe space to celebrate. This is the Marmolejos family. Linda Marmolejos is one of my dearest friends and was my daughter’s nanny - and second mother. I got to know her when she unexpectedly showed up at my house with a tray of baked ziti when I had a newborn. Linda and her husband, Alex, are well-known in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Linda was the go-to babysitter for all of the local moms, and, ironically, 

most recently dedicated her life to raising money and supplies for women and families in underprivileged communities. Alex made t-shirts for every charity event in the neighborhood. Their children are 9 and 5 and have welcomed hoards of kids into their home with love and treated them like they were siblings. A few years ago, Linda fell and was injured. From that point forward their struggles grew and their finances dwindled. Add Covid and it was a perfect storm. Now they need our help. 

On December 1st, the Marmolejos family lost their apartment. They are in between homes and trying to save enough to start anew. Alex and Linda have come to the realization that New York is not an affordable option for them anymore and they hope to move south as soon as they can. They have given away or sold most of their belongings, and plan to live in a long-term hotel or RV if/when they have the cash. But, right now what they really need is stability. Bouncing around is taking a toll on them - not to mention that the holidays are upon us.

Times are tough for many of us right now. But if we reach deep into our hearts - and our pockets - we may be able to help my friends and return this season to what it is meant to be: Magical.

Please donate as much as you are able. You can reach out to me with questions.