#212 11/26/2007 Augusta, Maine My name is Lauren Bowen, and my husband is in the Marine Corps currently serving as a recruiter here in Augusta, Maine. We have 2 children, Ethan who is 3 years old and was diagnosed with SID (Sensory Integration Disorder)and a severe speech delay this year, and Jace who will turn 1 year old on January 12, 2008. While we are in need this year ourselves (I cannot work because of my oldest's constant care and therapy), I am writing on the behalf of dear friends of ours here in Maine. One of the Marines who also works as a recruiter with my husband, Jake & his wife Jessica need your help this Christmas. They are too proud to ask others for help & my family is not in the position to help financially so I am turning to you. Due to the rising cost of oil (for heat), and a first home that turned into a money pit, thier home is being foreclosed on. Problems with the home have taken all of the savings they had, and they have now fallen behind on several bills in order to pay for oil to heat the home for their family. They have 3 boys (Nicholas age 6, and twins Benjamin and Brayden age 3), all of whom will not have much of a Christmas without outside help. If anyone can give these boys a Christmas, I know it would mean the world to Jessica & Jake. Moreover if anyone could help with utilities ----any cash aid could go straight to the electric company (Central Maine Power Co.) or Oil Company (J&S Oil...or numerous others) -----My family is having their own struggles this Christmas....but we still have a roof over our heads----I can't say the same for the Caron family. Jake & Jessica Caron have become like family to us here so far from our own home and families (my husband and I are from Georgia), please....if there is anyone who can help them have a Christmas, open your heart and do something for this loving family. We do so much for the outide community (ie Toys For Tots), please help to do something for one of our own. Thank you & God Bless Semper Fi----Lauren Bowen Augusta,Me