Each year, our local charitable organizations do a tremendous job of helping to provide a happy and bountiful holiday for all of the families in our community who are in need. They put together baskets of food and give youngsters a bright Christmas or Chanukah by giving them toys, many of them collected in toy drives such as Toys for Tots.

This year, that work is even more important. Many people have contributed generously to the victims and their families of the September 11 terrorist attacks, and as a result, the local charities are hurting. Food banks are down and the number of toys and other items being collected is down as well. As a result, we ask our readers to reach, once again, into their pockets, and to dig a little deeper for those in need. Give to the Toys for Tots or other toy drives; take part in a food drive or simply write a check to a local organization that is helping the needy.

Many of the groups are listed in our newspaper. You may know of one or two on your own. If not, call us and we’ll give you the name and telephone number of organizations that can use your help and your generosity.

And, have a happy and peace-filled holiday season.