To the editor:

It is that time of year again, when in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, the sight of the Salvation Army's Christmas kettles and the sound of the bells remind us to be thankful for what have and to think of others less fortunate. Often when people think of those in need, they picture the homeless in large cities, not realizing the Salvation Army is hard at work here in Marshall and neighboring communities.

Under the current economic conditions when cuts in social services and work layoffs take a toll on the poor - particularly the rural poor - The Salvation Army Unit of Lyon County is asking for our community to support Salvation Army services through the Christmas Kettle campaign. Our local Salvation Army Service Unit puts funds to work - right here - all year long, providing summer camp scholarships, utility assistance, nourishment and shelter for Lyon County residents.

Last year our kettle raised $16,158.27 in our county. This money was used year round to help those in emergency situations and also help fund our back-to-school supplies project.

The past year 374 people were assisted in Lyon County with lodging, groceries, transportation, utilities, rent, Easter and Christmas League of Mercy (nursing home visits) and miscellaneous assistance.

This year's kettle sites are County Fair, Hy-Vee, Shopko, Runnings and K-Mart.

Donating to the red kettles or offering your time to bell ring will mean a brighter future and renewed chance for many Lyon County residents. If you have questions about Salvation Army services or are able to bell ring, please contact our kettle coordinator Carrie Stiernagle at 507-337-0219 (email: carrieann14@hotmail.com or Tony Doom at 507-929-2407 (email: TonyDoom@iw.net).

Thank you for your continuing support.

Sincerely,

Tony Doom

Salvation Army Lyon County Service Unit chairman

Marshall