Dear Santa,
This is such a busy time of year at The Salvation Army.
It also is a period of such extremes - we see some very hurting people come through our doors but also a great deal of generosity that would make you proud, Santa.
As the year draws to a close, I believe it is so important to recognize accomplishments and blessings.
Some of the successes I reflect on back through this year occurred through the Assets for Independence (AFI) program we offer. Families set goals to save money in an AFI account, which is then matched and put toward an asset of either buying a first home, starting a small business, or furthering their education.
Santa, do you know the joy of seeing someone succeed?
I've seen it numerous times this year - one AFI participant used their savings to purchase equipment for a new business; another put their money toward finishing their college degree and paying for their books; and yet another was handed keys to their remodeled Habitat for Humanity home that they had worked so hard to get for their family.
In my opinion, the nicest part of the AFI program is that the participant receives satisfaction knowing that all of their hard work contributed to their own success.
Such a valuable lesson!
Merry Christmas,
Amy
Please help by giving generously to the Sun-Gazette and the Salvation Army Santa Fund.
You can help make this a brighter holiday season for local families by making a contribution in person to any branch of M&T Bank or by mail to M&T Bank at 405 River Ave.; at the Salvation Army, 457 Market St.; or the Sun-Gazette office, 252 W. Fourth St., Williamsport, PA 17701.
The Santa Fund is a fundraiser organized by the Sun-Gazette and the Salvation Army to help local families in need.
