Bellringer donations are beginning to pour in, maybe it was the snowy weather that inspired giving, but we received donations from many old friends.

Donations are already over $3,000, but a nice start on this yearís North Kitsap Bellringer goal of $25,000.

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 trnasportation costs. The needs of many families are greater this year, 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.

The needs of many families are greater this year 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 North Kitsap Herald, P.O. Box 278, Poulsbo 98370. Contributions of $250 or more receive a receipt for the donorís records.

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 also be dropped off at the Herald office between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. each Monday through Friday.

The North Kitsap Bellringer Fund was begun by Frank and Mabel Raab 50 years ago and is now managed by the Raab Foundation and Poulsbo Noon Lions Club.