The Santa’s Helper Fund aims to raise $50,000 for area Salvation Army units during the next 33 days. Readers may follow its progress by reading this column every day until Dec. 31. The Bangor Daily News will recognize all contributors and the amounts donated.

The following contributors have initiated our fund-raising effort and will push us toward reaching our goal:

Matthew, Patrick and Jennifer of Bangor gave $25; Anonymous in Dover-Foxcroft, $25; Paul and Irene Martin of Old Town, $25; Thelma E. Anderson of Bangor, $25; Anonymous in Dixmont, $25; Hazel R. Townsend of Caribou, $100; American Veterans Post 9 in Old Town, $25; Brent and Michele Slater of Bangor, $35; Anonymous in Exeter, $50; Emma Pelletier of Allagash, $20. Ida M. Birmingham of Sherman Mills sent 25 pairs of handmade mittens. Ms. Birmingham wishes a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to every little boy and girl who wears a pair of her mittens.

If you would like to help someone in need, consider joining these donors and give to the Santa’s Helper Fund. Donations received are sorted by ZIP code and are forwarded to the Salvation Army unit nearest the contributor’s hometown. Therefore, your donation will aid people in your community.

One family writes that they are experiencing a difficult year. They no longer have an automobile and are behind in paying the bills. Their children would like some things that they find practically impossible to provide, and the family has asked for the Salvation Army’s help. Your donation to the Santa’s Helper Fund will support this family and others like it by providing food, clothing and toys for a warmer, happier holiday season.

Please 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.