Editorial: Make holidays bright for foster children

Year in and year out, we’re consistently impressed with this community’s compassion for those who are less fortunate.

In 2007, Iredell residents and businesses have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to the capital campaigns for Fifth Street Shelter Ministries and the Boys & Girls Club. Your annual contributions to the United Way of Iredell County have helped support the work of member agencies like the Salvation Army and American Red Cross, which change the lives of your neighbors for the better every day.

And, every year since 1960, you have supported the Iredell County Department of Social Services’ efforts to raise money for the Lonely Children’s Fund, which provides financial assistance to the 100-plus foster children in our county.

For 46 years, you’ve helped DSS reach its goal by contributing enough money to provide Christmas presents and other extras throughout the year — like summer camp and band instruments — for Iredell children who, through no fault of their own, are in the custody of the state.

This year’s goal is $25,000.

So far, you’ve contributed more than $22,000, making it extremely likely that DSS will extend its streak to 47 consecutive years.To those who have given, thank you for spreading a little holiday cheer to a group of children and teenagers that truly appreciates your generosity at Christmas and throughout the year.

To those who haven’t, there’s still time. We can’t think of a better last-minute gift or memorial contribution and we’re proud to publish the names of the contributors every year.