The Season for Giving
The holidays are wonderful in so many ways, but for some it can be a difficult time. In this economic climate, more people than ever before need assistance, and we can all help through our time or contributions.
TOYS FOR TOTS/GIFTS FOR TEENS
WKLA and FiveCAP, as well as the Salvation Army and the USMC are coordinating the Mason County Toys for Tots/Gifts for Teens program. Each year, hundreds of needy children receive toys for Christmas. Please consider donating a monetary gift or a new toy, which can be dropped off at WKLA, FiveCAP or at the Salvation Army, 114 E. Melendy Street in Ludington.
SALVATION ARMY
The familiar bell ringers outside many shopping establishments brave the cold and snow to help raise money for area families. You can help by volunteering to be a bell ringer, even if you only have an hour or two. All it takes is a smile and a bit of Christmas spirit. If you can help, call 843-3711 or 757-3907. And as you're rushing in and out of stores, remember to drop some money into the kettle. It will surely be put to good use.
CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS
To help men and women overseas during the holiday season, Cell Phones for Soldiers is offering its inaugural Honor and Memorial Gift Program. For every $5 doneated, 150 minutes of talk time is given to military members overseas. Go to cellphonesforsoldiers.com to make a donation.
FOOD BANKS
Many area food banks (including the Salvation Army) are running low on supplies, just when people need food the most. Local churches, schools, and businesses are organizing drives where you can donate canned and boxed goods, personal items, and paper products. While you're grocery shopping, it's so easy to pick up a few extra items to share with others.
WARM THE CHILDREN
Staying warm throughout the winter is not easy for everyone...some kids don't own a coat or boots. The Ludington Daily News sponsors the Warm the Children program, where community donations help purchase winter clothing for families with children. Apply at the Department of Human Services, 915 Diana Street in Ludington. If you would like to volunteer to be a shopper, call 845-5181.
MITTEN TREE
Since 1950, Church Women United have decorated a tree with handmade mittens, scarves, and gloves. All clothing will be donated to the children of Mason County. Please consider helping out the Mitten Tree, located at PNC Bank in downtown Ludington, so that all children can have a nice, warm winter.
PROJECT MARY
Sponsored by The West Shore Pregnancy Care Center, this project supplies Christmas items for needy families. You can "adopt" a client and her family by calling the center at 843-7094, or dropping off items at 5565 W. 1st Street.
COVE
Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters helps clients all year by providing shelter for women and children caught in domestic violence situations. During the holidays, extra help is needed, especially with diaper donations. You can drop off an unwrapped gift at COVE's Angel Tree at Bookmark.
The true meaning of the season lies within us. There are so many ways to give, and it takes so little time and money to fulfill the Christmas dreams of many. Let's band together as a community to make sure the holiday season is warm, happy, and bright for everyone.
