Many of those who benefit from your donations to the Santa’s Helper Fund struggle day by day to feed and clothe their families. As the winter season and the holidays approach, this struggle only intensifies.

Christmas is an especially difficult time for these families, according to The Salvation Army, because children often don’t understand their family’s financial situation. The Salvation Army, which already has received many letters requesting assistance this year, will work around the clock until Christmas to make sure that all of those who seek help receive it.

The Salvation Army will take applications for assistance from 9 a.m. to noon Nov. 14-16, 21-23 and 28-30, at 585 Broadway in Bangor.

With a little help from a lot of people, The Salvation Army hopes to raise $50,000 through the Santa’s Helper Fund this year. Last year, the fund raised nearly $47,000.

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. Thank you in advance for your generosity.