The holidays are here.  It’s the time of year when many are in need of warm meals and gifts.

For thousands, this will be the first time they seek assistance.  But with so many families struggling, several wishes could be left unanswered this holiday.

"There are tons of families that are in my situation,” Candance Jensen said.

She’s a single working mom with two kids and this Christmas, more than ever, money is tight.

"It’s the time of year where they get something special and I’m having a rough time getting that this year,” Jensen explained.

Hundreds of organizations have formed just to give to families, like the Jensens, during the holidays.

A name that everyone knows is The Salvation Army.

"People are coming in and filling out applications,” Captain Terrie Wilson, with The Salvation Army, said. “We’ve reached over six hundred applications. We still have two more weeks that we will be taking those applications."

In the next two weeks, the number of applications there is expected to double.

"People come in and they tell their stories of what has happened in the last year. It’s hard for them," Wilson said.

The organization is preparing for many newcomers, those who've never had to ask for help before.

For her first time, Jensen turned to Hope of the Grand Valley.

"It’s kind of embarrassing,” Jensen said.  “I’m kind of shocked I’m doing this right now but its life. I can't change it. I’m just happy to get the help."

Jensen says times are tough now, but as soon as she can she'll be paying the kindness forward.

"This means a lot to me. This is a blessing. Somebody is watching out for me," Jensen said.

Hope of the Grand Valley still has the resources to help more families.  For more information click here.