Old friends and new friends have been extra generous this holiday season and the North Kitsap Bellringer Fund continues to grow daily. Now at more than $15,000 we are making steady progress toward the fund’s goal of $25,000.

If you haven’t yet stopped by the North Kitsap Herald office, or Kitsap Bank with a donation—please be sure to do so early next week. Donations are used to provide Christmas meals, toys for area children—and Christmas shopping needs to be completed.

If you can’t make a trip to drop off your check in person, be sure to drop it in the mail soon, and be sure to indicate exactly how you want the donation credited and if it is in honor of someone special to you.

Last year 145 families were aided by the generosity of area families and businesses. The fund not only helped at the holidays, but also helped pay for other important expenses such as utility bills, clothing, medical expenses, school supplies, rent and transportation costs. Requests for assistance are up significantly this year, making your contribution more important than ever.

All money raised through the North Kitsap Bellringer Fund remains in North Kitsap, and 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; or mailed to the North Kitsap Herald, P.O. Box 278, Poulsbo 98370. Contributions of $250 or more receive a receipt for the donor’s records.

The Bellringer Fund is administered by the Raab Foundation, and the Poulsbo Noon Lions Club.

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 also received a generous collection of new toys that were donated to Fishline Food Bank. Toys are no longer being collected at the Herald office.