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Spread Holiday Cheer Outside The Home This Year

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 23, 2007

Pasco County's charitable and service organizations began preparing for the Thanksgiving holiday months in advance, and they delivered to the delight of hundreds of less-fortunate families that needed their help.

Here are just a couple of examples: The Salvation Army's Center of Hope in Port Richey hosted its annual community dinner, which was open to anyone, on Turkey Day. Meanwhile, a group of area doctors and the Boys & Girls Club teamed to distribute prepared meals to 60 families.

This type of spirit reverberates throughout Pasco, and it couldn't exist to the degree it does without dedicated volunteers and the kindness of residents. But always, more is needed of both varieties, especially at this time of year.

Think about it. Giving is wonderful. It doesn't have to be much. The next time you go to the grocery store, pick up an extra can of vegetables or evaporated milk or a package of Jell-O, items that cost less than a dollar, and give them to your local organization for distribution to the needy.

Or how about a toy that could be purchased for a couple of dollars, or even for the price of a fast-food value meal, at area "dollar" stores and other business? Having a small package to open will bring joy to a child whose family may not have the money.

The Marine Corps' Toys for Tots program and the U.S. Postal Service team up every year in east Pasco to collect toys. This year the event is Dec. 1, a Saturday. All residents have to do is leave an unopened toy by their mailboxes, and mail carriers will pick it up and give it to Toys for Tots, which helps more than 3,000 needy children enjoy the holidays.

It's a great way to give, and it's easy.

Remember, it doesn't take much on the part of one person, but the giving certainly adds up, making for a brighter holiday season.

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