It is time once again for the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Christmas is fast approaching, and many of us are already making lists and starting the shopping frenzy.

For many in our community, however, the holidays are far from a time of cheer. They are our hometown neighbors who struggle to make ends meet all year long. The cold reality is that there is no way for them to provide those magical Christmas moments for their children.

With the support of the Santa Claus Committee and many generous people in our area, the Children’s Christmas Tree Fund has provided toys and treats for children who would not otherwise experience the joy of the yuletide season.

The Children’s Christmas Tree Fund was started in the early 1900s by the publisher of The Natchez Democrat, James Lambert.

He, along with a committee of many prominent businessmen, wanted to help those children whose parents weren’t able to do so.

The Santa Claus Committee was formed by these businessmen and still oversees this annual celebration.

For many years, Katherine Killelea chaired the fund. A few years ago she decided to step down as chairman and passed the honor on to Beth Mallory Foster and me.

This annual event is extra special to us because James Lambert was our great-great-grandfather.

For as long as we can remember, we, along with many of our cousins, participated in the Children’s Christmas Tree Fund by bagging candy and toys.

We look forward to continuing this heartwarming tradition with our own children.

It is an honor to be a part of this worthy cause.

You can help provide Christmas smiles for the less fortunate by making a contribution to the Children’s Christmas Tree Fund. Donations may be sent to: Christmas Tree Fund, P.O. Box 1082, Natchez, MS, 39121 or to The Natchez Democrat, P.O. Box 1447, Natchez, MS, 39121.

May your holiday season be filled with peace and joy.

Caroline Ferguson MCDONOUGH is the co-chair of the Children’s Christmas Tree Fund.