BANGOR, Maine — A few days ago at The Salvation Army’s Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen, we had a full Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings, serving more than 210 meals. The food was prepared and served by caring volunteers from church and civic groups as well as other individuals, all doing their part, working together.
Both those who were serving and those who enjoyed the meal represented the spectrum of our community, and the spirit that makes it strong.
“I just couldn’t get over how many of the people we served took the time to smile and say, ‘Thank you,’” one volunteer told me. “Many, after they had finished eating, would shake my hand and compliment a part of the meal that was special to them, like the green bean casserole or the pumpkin pie. Their gratitude was overwhelming! I was so grateful to have a small part in it.”
We can all have a part in touching the life of another. The Christmas season reminds us of that, as we hear the story of the birth of the Savior, see the excitement of children as they anticipate a visit from St. Nick, or sing the carols that help us to believe that peace on Earth and goodwill toward men really is possible.
We know that there are neighbors in our community who have need, facing unexpected challenges and trying to make ends meet but finding that their best efforts still fall short. They turn to us at The Salvation Army to lend a hand until they get back on their feet.
You can have a part in meeting that need through the Santa’s Helper Fund. Like the volunteers at our Thanksgiving meal, you can touch the lives of others in a way that will make a difference.
Your donations to the Santa’s Helper Fund support our year-round work in the community, including meals at our Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen, Christmas gifts for children, utility and rental assistance, groceries for our food pantry, sending a child to Camp Sebago, heating assistance, clothing and winter coats, and much more.
Since 1973, the readers of the Bangor Daily News have raised more than $1,000,000 to support their neighbors in need. This year our goal is $50,000.
You can honor others when you send your donation. Gifts in the past have been given by individuals, families, social groups or businesses; in the name of loved ones, in honor of a significant person, to recognize achievements, anonymously, and even in memory of a cherished pet. Donations will be listed daily in the Bangor Daily News.
Donations may be sent to Santa’s Helper Fund, The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1766, Bangor ME 04402, or may be made securely online at http://www.bangor.salvationarmyme.org/santahelper.