The Santa’s Helper Fund was created to help needy families and individuals by way of the many services provided by local Salvation Army units, such as food, gifts and clothing.

As the days grow short and the air gets crisp, the warmth of the indoors brings families together. Winter also means the time has come to share with those who fear the inevitable cold. For some, the bills are just too high anyway and the need to divert resources to staying warm and sheltered puts additional burdens on already strained budgets; others face serious illness. Somehow, their children must have new clothing and a gift from Santa.

That’s why Santa’s Helper is here. Donations to the Santa’s Helper Fund go directly to Salvation Army units to provide toys, food, clothing and shelter to those who need it most in your communities. None of the money goes to another state. The benefits stay local.

It’s a simple way for neighbors to help neighbors without the awkwardness of direct contact between the givers and the receivers. The Salvation Army sees to the details of fulfilling the need. All you have to do is send your donations.

Since the Sept. 11 terrorism attacks, most people worry about the state of the economy. Many people have small cushions that can carry them through lean times. But many families do not.

Several businesses have experienced layoffs in Maine over the last year, and families that already were just getting by are now experiencing real financial difficulty. That means juggling bills and money to provide the staples of life. That means nothing extra to buy a simple toy or warm coat for a young child who cannot understand the ins and outs of family finances.

The Salvation Army has a growing list of deserving families to serve, and they will be grateful for the dollars collected through the Santa’s Helper Fund. Thank you in advance for considering a simple donation to this local Santa’s Helper Fund.

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