Today, the Bangor Daily News kicks off its annual Santa’s Helper Fund effort and is pleased to report that the first donation already has arrived.

Larry Dawson, George Crouse and Chuck Jordan, representing the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Brewer, Aerie 3177, recently arrived with a check for $2,005 made out to the Santa’s Helper Fund. For many years, the Brewer Eagles Club has served as a leader in this important fundraising effort. According to the group, doing so reflects its mission of “people helping people.”

For years, the BDN has designated November and December to collect cash donations from individuals and organizations in northern and eastern Maine, 100 percent of which is given to The Salvation Army and used to help Maine people who need it throughout the Christmas season.

Maj. Debbie Burr of The Salvation Army said applications from those needing Christmas assistance will be taken from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays through Wednesdays, Nov. 14-16, 21-23 and 28-30, at 585 Broadway in Bangor, adjacent to The Salvation Army Family Store. Applicants must bring proof of residency and proof of income and expenses.

Maj. Burr said applications would be taken only on the dates listed.

Last year, the Santa’s Helper Fund raised $47,000, a little shy of its $50,000 goal. The goal will be the same this year because people’s needs continue to be great throughout this region and, in all likelihood, will be even greater with the uncertainty surrounding home heating costs.

All Santa’s Helper money is deposited in a special account as it is collected, and a check for the full amount will be presented to The Salvation Army at the end of the collection period. This 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, ME 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.