Many of us have experienced another weekend of shopping, bringing in and preparing the Christmas tree, baking and making gifts and planning happy holiday gatherings for the week ahead.

For many people living in our midst, the joy that such activities bring will elude them. Instead, they wonder whether they’ll be able to feed and find warm clothing for their families, and whether they’ll have a toy or two for their children come Christmas morning.

Thanks to The Salvation Army, many children and families will be served this month, but only because of the generosity of others who are more fortunate. For those of you who already have given to the Santa’s Helper Fund, thank you. For those of you who are looking for a way to reach out and make a difference, please consider giving to the Santa’s Helper Fund. Your generosity will return to you tenfold.

Tomorrow we will report what was received over the weekend. In the meantime, take time to marvel at the winter wonderland that is so beautiful here in Maine.

Donations may be sent to Santa’s Helper Fund, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402-1329. Names and donation amounts will be published in the Santa’s Helper column daily. Donors who prefer to remain anonymous will be listed as such, followed by donation amounts. Thank you in advance for your generosity.