POULSBO — After announcing it was in dire straights this week, the Bellringer fund saw North Kitsap community members do what they do best.

Dig deep.

After just three days of ringing the bell for those in need, the annual holiday drive for the Bellringer fund has already surpassed the $1,000 mark. That puts the fund one gigantic step forward in reaching its goal of $30,000.

Bellringer, a part of the Raab Foundation administered by the Poulsbo Noon Lions club, will help more than 300 North Kitsap families by the end of 2004 with things like household bills, transportation and food. But since October, the fund has had to severely limit its one-time gifts in order to make the fund last.

If the first round of donations are any indication of how the fund will go, Bellringer may be able to keep up with the demand much better in 2005.

Tax deductible donations can be made to the Bellringer Fund through Dec. 31 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 at P.O. Box 1244, 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. 19:

•Charles and Anne Thomas $100

•The James Family $500 In memory of Beryl Anne

•Richard Alness $100 In memory of Alness Farm

•The Stottlemyer Family $100 In memory of Grandma & Gramps

•Ed Stern $200 Challenge grant! OK Dawgs and Cougs — let’s hear from you! Go Bears! P.S. Trojans need not apply.

•Beverly Clough $50

Today’s total $1,050

Running total $1,050