Today, more generous donations arrived earmarked for the Santa’s Helper Fund. This brings our total collected to date to $15,700. It is heartwarming to see how many people are reaching out early in December, knowing there will be a great need come Dec. 25 and wanting to be part of this effort to bring joy and comfort to other people’s lives. The Salvation Army, which receives all funds collected, will make sure every dollar goes for food, clothing and toys for children at Christmas.

Many thanks to Anonymous, no address given, $3,000; Janice Blake of Stacyville, in memory of the Chamberlain family of Patten, $25; Carl and Irene Brown, Brooks, $50; In loving memory of Mr. and Mrs. George Roy and Mr. and Mrs. Pat Belanger, Eagle Lake, $50; Judith Highbarger, Old Town, $25; Jane A. Baron, Baileyville, $100; Anonymous, Harmony, $100; and Anonymous, Belfast, $25.

We’re also grateful for contributions from Mildred Baillargeon, Old Town, $100; Anonymous, Milford, $100; Jeanne Rudnicki, Bangor, $25; Alice Adams, Brooksville, $25; Pete and Eleanor Veilleux, Hampden, $25; The DuPont family of Benton, in memory of Edmond DuPont of Mattawamkeag, $50; Rena Richardson, in memory of her sister, Louise Richardson, Ellsworth, $50; Payne, Lynch and Harris, P.A., Bangor, $250.

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