Thanksgiving not bountiful for those facing hardship

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for all God's bounty bestowed on us. Many of us have a great number of things to be thankful for - family, friends, food on our tables, clothing on our backs, gainful employment and an occasional vacation. Though we give thanks throughout the year, Thanksgiving Day is truly a time for reflection on the blessings we receive.

Yet for many in our local communities, Thanksgiving has little or no meaning. For those facing hardships such as loss of employment, mounting utility bills, rent, mortgage and medical bills, Thanksgiving is yet another day of struggle, not a day to give thanks. Many people without the means to purchase food for a special holiday meal come to The Salvation Army for help. Food baskets are provided, and often hot meals are served to commemorate the day. We are thankful we can share our bounty with those in need.

As we move into the Christmas season, The Salvation Army's red kettles will be seen in malls, stores and along New Jersey highway rest stops. Donations to our Red Kettle effort are critical to the Army's service for those less fortunate. Each year, it becomes more difficult to sustain our Christmas distributions of food, clothing and toys as more and more people turn to us for help. And each year, because of your contributions, The Salvation Army is able to make Christmas bright for the needy an continue our programs and services throughout the year.

May God's blessings be upon you and your family this holiday season.

God bless.

Maj. Donald E. Berry

New Jersey

State Commander

The Salvation Army