No sooner had we announced the beginning of the 50th annual North Kitsap Bellringer Fund on Wednesday, than the first contributions arrived at the Herald office. Many generous friends make an annual donation to the Bellringer as a way to express gratitude for their own blessings and remember their loved ones during the holidays.

This year’s Bellringer goal is $25,000, an increase over the $22,000 donated by community members last year.

All money collected is used to purchase food and toys for North Kitsap families in need. The Bellringer fund is also used to help with everything from utility bills, clothing and medical expenses to school supplies, rent and transportation costs.

The North Kitsap Bellringer Fund was established by Frank and Mabel Raab and is sponsored now by the Raab Foundation and the Poulsbo Noon Lions Club.

Last year the fund purchased 56 food baskets at Christmas and assisted 145 families during the year, according to John MacDonald, CPA for the Raab Foundation, which manages the money collected.

The needs of many families are greater this year, MacDonald explained, and there are more requests for assistance. All money raised through the North Kitsap Bellringer Fund remains in North Kitsap, and the fund has no administrative costs.

Your tax-deductible donation can be made at the North Kitsap Herald office 18887 Highway 305 (office building next to the Dairy Queen, on the lower level), Poulsbo; Kitsap Bank in Poulsbo, 19725 7th Avenue; mailed to the Bellringer Fund at P.O. Box 1244, Poulsbo, 98370 or the North Kitsap Herald, P.O. Box 278, Poulsbo 98370. Contributions of $250 or more receive a receipt.

As donations are received, they will be listed on the front page of the Herald until Dec. 26. Donations may also be made anonymously.

The North Kitsap Herald is also collecting toys for Fishline Food Bank. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the Herald office between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. each Monday through Friday.