Today, the Bangor Daily News kicks off the annual Santa’s Helper Fund.

For years, the NEWS in November and December has collected cash donations from individuals and organizations in northern and eastern Maine to benefit those in need.

One hundred percent of the donations is turned over to The Salvation Army, which uses the money collected to help support the enormous expenses it incurs helping people throughout the Christmas season.

“The Salvation Army will begin accepting applications for assistance starting next Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon Monday through Friday,” at its location at 65 South Park St. in Bangor, according to Maj. Debbie Burr. She said the group hopes to process all requests by the first week in December.

“We are always pleased with the support we receive from the community and are very appreciative for the generosity of so many people,” Burr said.

Last year, the Santa’s Helper Fund raised a little less than its $50,000 goal, but organizers hope this year to increase donations if at all possible.

“With gas and heating prices skyrocketing, we are sure to have an increase in people needing our assistance during the cold winter months,” Burr said.

Thanks go out to two organizations that already have made donations. The Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 3177, Brewer, longtime supporters of the Santa’s Helper Fund, has made a donation in the amount of $2,004.

The other early donation to Santa’s Helper Fund comes from the Bernard L. Coro Auxiliary Unit 22 in the amount of $300. Many thanks to both of these organizations.

All money sent to Santa’s Helper is deposited in a special account, and a check for the full amount collected will be presented to The Salvation Army.

This service means that The Salvation Army can concentrate on the important business of processing applications and preparing Christmas boxes for needy families.

Donations may be sent to Santa’s Helper Fund, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402-1329. Donors’ names and dollar 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. Anyone with questions about the Santa’s Helper Fund may call The Salvation Army at 941-2990.