POULSBO — The most recent donations toward the Bellringer Fund put the tally near the $2,500 mark.

But there’s still nearly $28,000 to go on the road to the annual holiday drive’s goal of $30,000 raised for the 53-year-old fund.

Bellringer, a part of the Raab Foundation administered by the Poulsbo Noon Lions, annually helps hundreds of North Kitsap residents receive one-time needed assistance. Beneficiaries have had help with utility bills, mortgages and rent and even emergency transportation. The fund will also be supplying 100 Christmas food baskets through Fishline Food Bank this year.

Though the North Kitsap Herald throws its support behind “ringing the bell” for the community fund each holiday season, it’s community contributions large and small that keep Bellringer on its mission. As of today, there are 31 days to make donations to keep the fund working its magic in the North Kitsap community — organizers are hoping that those who are able to contribute will make them count.

Tax deductible donations can be made to the Bellringer Fund at Kitsap Bank in Poulsbo, 19725 7th Avenue, and the North Kitsap Herald, 18887 State Highway 305, suite 700.

Donations can also be mailed to the Bellringer Fund, P.O. Box 1244, Poulsbo, WA 98370 or to the North Kitsap Herald, P.O. Box 278, Poulsbo, WA 98370.

Contributions of $250 or more receive a receipt for the donor’s records.

Families, individuals and organizations will be listed on the front page of the Herald every issue as donations are tallied.

Community members can also help the Bellringer fund by getting their vehicles washed at Mike’s Car Wash in Poulsbo Village. Now through Dec. 31, owner Mike Brooks will be donating a portion of all automatic car wash sales to the fund. Last year, a similar fund-raiser made $1,375 for Bellringer. For more information, call (360) 697-1144.

Once again, the North Kitsap Herald will also be collecting toys for the Fishline Food Bank’s Christmas Toy Shop. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the office between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 13. There is a particular need for items appropriate for ages 10-14.

The number to request help from Bellringer is (360) 697-6087.

Bellringer donations through Nov. 29:

• Theodore Lofgren $100 In memory of HW “Mike” Lofgren and John Broderson

• Harriet Stenwick $20 In memory of Mattie, Eldor and Gordon Stenwick

• $50 In memory of Mom, Dad and Elaine

• Little Norway Grandmothers $100

• Dale and Beverly Anderson $100

Today’s total $370

Running total $2,356