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Family of five could use furnishings, clothing Sunday Dec 11, 2016 at 2:00 AM Editor's note: Light One Candle is an annual series sponsored by the Mail Tribune that focuses on an individual, group or agency who could use a helping hand during the holiday season. Once that need is filled, donations may be distributed to others in need. This family of five calls a two-bedroom apartment home after living just a year ago in transitional housing. A few furnishings and new clothes would reward the parents’ efforts to overcome addiction. Although they don’t own a car, the parents persistently sought employment and now both work, said Colette Pare-Miller of Medford’s Family Nurturing Center. The Medford couple also navigated their younger son’s health hardships, including several major surgeries, as well as their own depression and moving beyond past trauma, said Pare-Miller. The parents obtained help from numerous resources in the community, met all criteria of state child-welfare workers and remained sober, she said. Diligence and love for their children has brought the family so far in one year, said Pare-Miller. Positive change is evident in the kids, who light up the Family Nurturing Center’s classrooms, she added. The 4-year-old boy, who has developmental delays, likes Spider-Man and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He wears size 4T in shirts and pants and size-9 shoes. Also a fan of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the 5-year-old boy enjoys coloring, art and the movie “Minions.” He wears size-5T shirts, 6T pants and size-12 shoes. The 2-year-old girl wishes for baby dolls and My Little Pony toys. She wears size-3T shirts, 2T pants and shoes in size 6 or 7. The 25-year-old mother and 27-year-old father both would appreciate gift cards to buy some new clothes or shoes. A small table and chairs, a dresser and picture frames or other wall décor would make this family’s new apartment more comfortable. To help, call Pare-Miller at 541-779-5242.