This week we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday, and begin the holiday season that will span the rest of November and the month of December. While we all are eager to spend time with family and friends, a tradition that always seems special around the holidays in particular, it is important each year to come together to help our community’s less fortunate. In Manchester, we are lucky to have many wonderful organizations doing great charity work throughout this season, and ensuring the Manchester individuals and families have a joyful holiday season.

            This week, the New Horizons Food Pantry will hold their annual breakfast, where organizers, supporters and volunteers come together to speak about the past year, and commit their efforts to help Manchester’s homeless population. New Horizon’s has been integral in serving the needs of our community’s homeless population and their efforts brighten the lives of Manchester residents each and every day. I have no doubt that our community will continue to rally behind the efforts of New Horizons this holiday season and continues its strong support of their efforts.

            The magic of the holidays is often best captured by the children in our communities, and each year youngsters look forward to gift-giving, time with family and holiday cheer. In that light, we must remember that many children need our help to make the holidays something special for them. For many years, the Toys for Tots program have been making this a priority, and it is my hope that their collection throughout the Manchester community is successful throughout this year’s season. Since the programs founding in 1948 by the United State Marine Corps, Toys for Tots has donated more than 300 million toys to children throughout the United States. Drop-off locations can be found throughout our community, including a site at the Mall of New Hampshire. A donation to the Toys for Tots program can go a long way towards making a special holiday for a child in need.

            Finally, as we visit stores and shops in the next few weeks with family and loved ones, consider a donation to the Salvation Army Red Kettle charity drive. The Manchester Corps of the Salvation Army does a wonderful job of supporting the Manchester community not only during the holiday season but throughout the year.     

            There are many charities, foundations and organizations set up to help families and individuals in the Manchester community throughout the year, and they provide needed support to our community’s needy population. Throughout the holiday season, please consider helping these, or any of the other great organizations that do so much to help families in and throughout the Manchester community.