Editorial: It's the time of year to give to help out others

Today is the start of the holiday season when the spirit of giving captures everyone.

There are a lot of things to be thankful for. The weather has cooperated so far which will minimize the early winter heating bills. The economy is holding up, despite high energy costs. Terror attacks have not hit American soil so far this year.

The season of giving is also a good time to remember those who are not as fortunate. There are a number of worthy projects in west central Minnesota dedicated to helping those in need.

The Warm The Children campaign, administered by the West Central Tribune, is in the midst of its holiday campaign and is still seeking donations. Warm the Children is currently at about 20 percent of its $34,000 goal. That means the effort still needs more than $27,000.

Warm The Children provides adequate winter clothing for children in Kandiyohi County, as well as Meeker, Renville, Chippewa, Yellow Medicine and Swift counties. The program is in its 12th year and 100 percent of the funding raised goes to the purchase of appropriate clothing for children.

The Salvation Army has started its annual kettle drive with a goal of $60,000. The organization has a year-round effort to help people in Kandiyohi County and also provides aid to homeless people in the county.

Nationally, the organization has been helping in hurricane areas as well. Join the effort to fill up those red kettles to help others in need. Better yet, volunteer to help ring bells for the red kettle campaign.

The United Way of Kandiyohi County helps more than 40 organizations around the county. These programs assist more than 30,000 people during the year.

The United Way has a goal of $630,000 for the coming year. The organization's campaign is important as it continues vital program support during a time of growing demand and shrinking resources.

Now is a good time to help out others. You can contact the groups at:

n Warm The Children at (320) 235-1150

n The Salvation Army at (320) 235-2033

n The United Way at (320) 235-1050.

A little giving will brighten your day as you help others.