Fuel costs daunting to area family

The holidays can be a frustrating time for many. Long waiting lines, pressures to buy the “right” gifts, and scarcity of time all contribute to that frazzled feeling that overcomes most of us this time of year. Let’s remind ourselves for a moment how lucky we are to be waiting in line at the store rather than in line at the homeless shelter. How nice it is to know that at the end of the day, we can retire our tired bodies to a warm bed in a warm home. Even though we didn’t find all the “right” gifts, at least there are gifts to be given and to receive.

For someone less fortunate, the holidays are just another burden to bear. Your support of the Salvation Army, however, can help ease the difficulties people in your community face. Your donation to the Santa’s Helper Fund will make a difference in someone’s life this holiday season.

The Santa’s Helper Fund is the Bangor Daily News’ fund-raising effort for the Salvation Army. Contributions to Santa’s Helper are forwarded to the Salvation Army unit closest to the contributor’s hometown. Money collected is used to provide food, clothing, shelter and holiday gifts to people who need a helping hand. Your donation helps your neighbors, and because the Salvation Army has decades of experience helping people, your gift will quickly reach those who really need it.

One family writes that they are having trouble overcoming the increased costs of heating oil and gasoline. Having just moved to the area, they’re trying to “catch up” with expenses. They are worried about being able to support themselves, and believe that any help the Salvation Army can give would assist them through the season.

If you would like to help families like this one have a happier holiday, please consider donating to the Santa’s Helper Fund.

Help us reach our fund-raising goal of collecting $50,000 in the next 36 days. Send your contribution to the Santa’s Helper Fund, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402-1329. All contributors will be recognized in the NEWS unless anonymity is requested.