At this time of year many people are asking for donations to causes, and in these economic times, making those donations can be a strain.

But for those of us who can give, even a small amount, we can brighten the holiday season for someone truly in need.

L’Observateur holds its “Food for Families” drive every year during the Christmas season. In years past the newspaper has accepted and delivered food donations to needy families, but this year we are asking for cash donations, and, in turn, we will purchase vouchers from local grocery stores and families can go and get the foods they really need in order to have a good holiday meal.

Donations are trickling in, but not as we had hoped they would. On the other end, we’ve received many nomination forms of families who need help, but if we don’t receive more donations, we’ll only be able to help a few.

There are always people looking for a handout any time a drive of any kind is held. But there are also those who truly need help, and sometimes it takes someone else to ask for them. We’ve received some nominations like that.

Here are some samples:

• “She’s is on a fixed income but loves to share whatever she has with others. She deserves this blessing from God.”

• “…lives on a very small income and has many medical expenses.”

• “She lost her husband and has two small children.”

• “He is a disabled vet on a fixed income. With inflation, bills and everyday use there’s nothing left at the end of the month.”

• “…is alone and on a very limited income…and needs to know people care for her.”

• “She’s been unemployed since…. When she was working she gave unlimited amounts to persons who were in need. Now it’s her time to receive from others.”

We’ve been told of elderly people who are living on fixed incomes and single parents struggling to take care of their children and make ends meet. There are other stories, too.

And few nominations have come from the people in need themselves; most are coming from friends, family and churches.

We are asking you to help us help area families. Any food donations will be taken to the Ministry of Care of LaPlace, while monetary donations will go directly to as many families as we have funds enough to feed.

We’ll accept donations through Dec. 11. Please find it in your heart to give, even if only a small amount.

Send donations to Food for Families, c/o L’Observateur, 116 Newspaper Drive, LaPlace, LA 70068 or bring by our office at that address.

Thank you, and may God bless each of you this Christmas season.

Sandy Cunningham is publisher of L’Observateur. She can be reached at sandy.cunningham@ wickcommunications.com.