As we approach this holiday season,

we have more than enough reasons to share our blessings with others.

This has indeed been a difficult year for our community. Even as we continue to struggle with economic problems, we have welcomed new residents literally blown in by Hurricane Katrina.

Our needs have been nearly overwhelming, yet churches, organizations, governments and individuals have stepped up to meet each and overcome every obstacle, every problem.

But now, at Christmas time, we have to find more to give.

So many local organizations need help to make it through the holidays, to ensure that the people their agencies support &8212; children, senior citizens, the poor &8212; have a proper Christmas celebration.

Over the next several weeks, we will be highlighting each of those organizations, letting our readers know what their needs are and how you can help.

We kick off our Season of Wishes again this Sunday with the Christmas project that is so near and dear to the heart of our newspaper, the Children&8217;s Christmas Tree Fund that was initiated more than a century ago by a longtime publisher.

Every day, we will provide you another reason to open your hearts and give. Organizations need our money, our time, our help. The needs are vast, but our community&8217;s heart can cover it all.