Bell ringers: Salvation Army is out ringing its bells again this year

During this time of year, it is easy to walk right by the bright red kettle outside your favorite local store.

After all, we are all long on lists and low on time, so it is not surprising that rushing by might seem like the only choice.

But as you go about your holiday shopping this year, think about tossing some change or even a dollar or two into the Salvation Army kettles.

The money that is collected goes to help those who are less-fortunate -- people without homes, food or clothing. Some local needy children will also receive help for Christmas this year because of the efforts of The Salvation Army.

It is easy to forget at Christmastime that this time of year is not just about presents, shopping and big holiday meals.

We need to remember that for some Wayne County families, Dec. 25 will be just another day of struggling to get by.

Forget Santa, forget Christmas trees. All they are trying to do is make sure their families have a hot meal.

The Salvation Army is a port in the storm for many of the people who have nowhere else to turn. The organization offers people who are struggling the chance to turn their lives around -- and to keep their families fed and clothed.

The Christmas story is about taking care of a family no one wanted to welcome into their hotel or home.

There is no better way to observe this holiday than to be that sort of refuge for a local family or individual right here at home.

So pause a moment on your next shopping trip and toss some change into the kettle.

You might help someone change his or her life.

Published in Editorials on December 3, 2010 11:02 AM