The Santa’s Helper Fund would like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank the staff and volunteers at The Salvation Army who work selflessly and diligently to provide relief to others during the holidays.

Last year alone, The Salvation Army visited residents in all 28 nursing homes from Bar Harbor to Lincoln, with approximately 2,300 residents.

Additionally, 721 families with 2,418 children received toys, clothing, coats and food for the holidays.

For 135 years, The Salvation Army has provided services to those in need. “Salvationists” work to accomplish countless acts of charity.

“It’s very time-consuming,” Harold Connors, director of social services at The Salvation Army in Bangor, said, “but that’s the spirit of Christmas, and it’s part of what we do.”

At times, he said, his workday can last for 12 hours or more.

“We try to serve as many people as we can,” he explained, “and we do whatever it takes to ensure that everyone enjoys their Christmas.”

Of course, the outreach conducted by The Salvation Army would not be possible without the support of the community.

“There’s a tremendous number of people in the community that add to our services,” said Connors.

From the contributors to the Santa’s Helper Fund to those who hand-deliver food and clothes to The Salvation Army Christmas Center, the generous people of this region continue to provide for friends and neighbors in need.

Connors described his calling to help others as “people like me need people like you to need people like me.”

So, to all of you who have chosen to lend a helping hand and an open heart – the Santa’s Helper Fund salutes you! Our list of contributors to the Santa’s Helper Fund will proceed Tuesday.

Please mail your donations to Santa’s Helper Fund, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402-1329. All contributions will be recognized in the NEWS unless the donors ask to remain anonymous.

Your gifts are greatly appreciated.