Feed the Hungry sees the need throughout the year. So do the Natchez Children’s Home, the Sunshine Shelter, Junior Auxiliary, the Friends of the Library.

These groups’ activities or needs become more pronounced at the holidays &045; as we all look to charitable organizations with which to share our Christmas spirit &045; but they need our help throughout the year as well.

Whether it’s a local organization trying to start a homebuyers down payment assistance program or the Friends raising funds for the library, we think it’s wonderful that individuals and groups are taking the lead in addressing needs in this community.

We have some new examples of those kindnesses manifested as public service &045; such as the organization interested in the down payment assistance program.

And we have some long-standing organizations, like Junior Auxiliary, that continue to address the needs in the Miss-Lou.

We take pride in knowing that these organizations &045; and the individuals who make up their memberships &045; are working hard all year long to help our community.

At Christmas, they all shout a little louder, because they know we’re listening.

Our hope is that we will all be listening throughout the year.

Government can’t do it all, and these groups are working to ensure not only that those less fortunate have a merry Christmas, but also that they have a warm winter or a summer camp when school gets out or a well-stocked pantry in the fall.

And they need our help, now and always.