This young boy had a very different request for Santa this year

This is heartbreaking.

Around this time every year, kids fill out their Santa letters, full of the toys, games and clothes they desire; when usually their biggest problem is choosing between one toy from the other. But this year, when New Orleans City Councilman-elect Jay Banks asked children from local schools to write down their wishes from Santa, he was surprised by one of the letters he received. The local politician noticed one letter from a 4th grade student who simply requested "new shoes and a happier life".

“This has to be one of the most frustrating things I have ever seen,” Banks said. “Put this in context, a 4th grade child has the opportunity to ask for what he wants for Christmas and this is what he asks for. A new bike, an xbox, other toys or a multitude of other things would not have surprised nor alarmed me but for a 4th grader to ask for a happier life is heart wrenching" he added.

Banks, who works alongside Angel Tree, a program which helps kids from disadvantaged areas get the Christmas gifts they want, shared the heartbreaking letter on Facebook and seeked out to the public for advice. Many reached out offering to help, with one user commenting: “Oh god, Jay, I’m wrecked over this for you. Let me help…Maybe more clothes? Or an after school program? I’m happy to contribute.” While another wrote: "Offering him the gift of mentorship and insight on how to improve his life would be best. I’m uncertain if the rules of the program prohibit you from knowing who the kid is, but if they don’t I’m in to assist with you. Hope and opportunity are all this kid should be burdened with at this age." Many others also reached out from the boy's local area, offering help and guidance to both him and his fellow classmates.