As the holidays wrap up and a fresh new year is laid out before us, it’s a good time to reflect on our hopes for the weeks and months ahead.
Christmas brings on a spirit of giving in Lower Bucks that touches many lives, but the everyday struggles of our neighbors in need extend well beyond the holiday season. That is why the Levittown-Bristol Kiwanis Club and Bucks County Courier Times will continue to accept donations until the Give A Christmas fund hits its $132,000 goal.
“Courier Times readers shined brightly again this year,” Executive Editor Shane Fitzgerald said. “It’s been a tough year, and people still reached deep to help others. We had an ambitious goal, and we’re almost there. I’m hopeful we can get in the fundraising time we have left this year. It’s so helpful to those in need.”
The fund is less than $10,000 short of its goal.
“The Christmas season is now coming to a close, but contributing to the Give A Christmas campaign has not stopped. Every donor is valued, appreciated and an important part of this community,” said Mary Berman, Kiwanis Club board member, past president and one of the main organizers of the campaign.
The money collected was distributed primarily as $35 vouchers for children in struggling families throughout Lower Bucks County to help parents and grandparents put a meal on the table or gifts under the tree.
Beyond the holidays, remaining funds are used to help individuals and families needing help in various forms throughout the year. Another reason continued donations towards the fund are vitally important.
“During the year Kiwanis uses this money to help needy families with things that are necessary for day to day living, things that many of us take for granted,” Berman explained.
“Your donations help us to provide ongoing support of the local food banks and help struggling families with much needed items such as clothing, medicine and food. We have utilities turned back on and get oil delivered the same day, after learning about a family that can’t pay the bill and will not have heat on a cold winter night. New beds have been provided for families that are sleeping on the floor.”
To donate, visit buckscountycouriertimes.com/giveachristmas or see the donation coupon on page A2 of the Bucks County Courier Times print editions.
— Michele Haddon, Special to the Bucks County Courier Times
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