Real Life | Real Issues

witf's Real Life | Real Issues is a multimedia series devoted to providing several angles on a single issue of interest to Central PA each month. The goal is to provide in-depth coverage of the topic on all witf media, including witf 89.5 & 93.3, witf TV, Central PA Magazine and witf.org. Real Life | Real Issues also engages listeners, viewers and readers on witf's Facebook and Twitter accounts to discuss the issues with members of the community.

Hard Times at the Holidays -- Chantee Williams

Written by Debbie Riek, Education Coordinator | Dec 20, 2010 1:51 PM

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"It's the most wonderful time of the year. It's the hap-happiest season of all" croons Andy Williams describing, of course, Christmas. For many Pennsylvanians, Christmas time brings a reminder of the places they are not, the goals that remain unaccomplished and the struggles and challenges that they face every day. These daily stresses can be compounded by the pressure to feel hap-happy and the confusion of others about why they are not. Chantee Wiliiams and her four-year-old daughter, Sanai, have lived in Harrisburg city for about two years after moving to Pennsylvania from New York. Chantee is a single parent, works in a fast food restaurant, and is committed to creating a better life for young Sanai. Sanai shows me proudly around her home pointing out her Christmas tree as well as her washing machine and refrigerator and explaining politely that she and her mom have an upstairs AND a downstairs. Though her family's challenges are difficult, Chantee talks about trying to create the magic she thinks Christmas should be for Sanai.

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WATCH VIDEO:

Chantee Williams describes a typical morning