Sikeston, Missouri
January 20, 1938
Dear Mrs. Roosevelt,
I am writing this letter in hopes that you will answer in my
favor.
My father H. C. has been in bed from a stroke for almost a
year. We have no money and my brother works but makes $3.00
a week and there are eight in our family.
My step-mother is very good to me and I try to help her.
She takes in washings and I have to walk for six or eight blocks
and then carry the washings home. I have to go of a morning
before school and it has been very cold here. If you could send
me a bicycle to ride when I go after washings for her I shall
appreciate it.

I am in eighth grade at school and work very hard to make
passing grades. The Principal of the school bought two of my
sisters and me a pair of slippers so we would not have to stay
at home. If you would do this for me I shall be able to help
my step-mother more. If you send me one I would like a girls
bicycle. I am about 4 feet 3 inches tall so if you send me one
you can judge as to what size.
Loving and appreciating A. L. C

1. What does the child in this letter ask for, and why does she say
her family is in need? What does this letter reveal about the
ways families were affected by the Great Depression?

2. This is just one of thousands of letters written to President and
Mrs. Roosevelt. Why do you think so many Americans thought
the Roosevelts could help them? Do you think this would be
true of all Presidents and First Ladies?