Trips to the post office are so much more fun during the holidays because we always find the Bellringer checks waiting. Some arrive in colorful holiday cards, and others with notes remembering a loved one. and we’re glad to receive every contribution—large or small.

In just our first week, the North Kitsap Bellringer Fund is already over $1,000, a joyful beginning. We do have a long way to go, however, to reach this year’s 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 transportation costs.

The North Kitsap Bellringer Fund was established by Frank and Mabel Raab and is sponsored now by the Raab Foundations 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 coordinates and 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 for the donor’s 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 be dropped off at the Herald office between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. each Monday through Friday.