Give to those less fortunate during this holiday season

As you ponder what you’ll get or give for Christmas, we’d like to ask our readers to take some time and think about those doing without this year.

As a community newspaper, we see all too often the struggles others must endure, fires that leave people with nothing, accidents and illnesses that leave families with unimaginable medical expenses, circumstances that lead to homelessness and hunger.

Fortunately, there are a number of ways to help those in need in our community.

Consider giving to Project Christmas Truck, a service that provides gifts for families who might not otherwise be able to afford gifts to put under the Christmas tree. Those interested in donating can find information about the gifts that have been requested on Christmas trees located at businesses around town including Bank of Colorado, Bomgaars, Simkins Parlour and Zoe’s Nook.

In conjunction with Project Christmas Truck, the Lost Sock Laundromat is collecting new socks for adults and children, to be included with the gifts.

You can also donate food for those in need to Cooperating Ministry of Logan County for their annual Christmas Basket Program or give to a local toy drive.

There are plenty of nonprofit organizations looking for a little support this holiday season as well. Colorado Gives Day makes giving easy. Though the day fell on Dec. 6 this year, there’s still time to give, simply go to www.coloradogives.org and find an organization you wish to support. There are many great local causes you can give to including the Family Resource Center, Baby Bear Hugs, Hospice of the Plains, Logan County Humane Society, Northeastern Junior College Foundation and Sterling Community Fund, just to name a few.

While giving is one of the best parts of the holiday season, it’s also important to remember that the need exists throughout the year. Donations location organizations receive as part of holiday giving usually don’t cover all the food, clothing and other needs that will arise once all the decorations have been put away.

So, we urge our readers to maintain your commitment to giving throughout the year. The holiday spirit that warms your heart this time of year need not be limited only to the holiday season.