Most Americans are blessed beyond belief. Statistically, even our poorest are wealthier than a great majority of the rest of the world.

As we approach the holiday season, many local charities and non-profits have needs that will depend upon our community to help fund.

But for every local charity, the holidays will pass this year for millions of children around the globe without much notice.

But you can help, with a small amount of time and money. The Christian organization Samaritan’s Purse has distributed more than 124 million small, shoebox-sized gifts for needy children around the globe.

This year the organization expects to deliver approximately 11 million shoeboxes filled with gifts. That’s a staggering undertaking, but it only happens with much hard work and generosity.

Last year, several hundred boxes were filled and sent abroad from Natchez. This year that number could be 10 times as many if just a few more people became involved in the effort.

The local collection point for boxes and donations is Parkway Baptist Church on Seargent Prentiss Drive. Volunteers will man the collection point at the church from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Saturday and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. this Sunday, when collections end.

The Christmas season is all about giving, and we can think of no better way to illustrate the Christmas spirit than by sharing some Christmas love with a less fortunate child.