December has always been the season of giving and here in Lawrence County this year there are so many who are in need of receiving some holiday cheer

For many, 2009 has been a tough year challenged by a struggling economy, job loss and ever-increasing expenses. That can all combine to create some sad days rather than the joyous ones that everyone deserves.

Thankfully there are many organizations and individuals who are willing to lend a hand and work tirelessly to give to those in need, a list that has grown this year.

The list of these holiday “angels” is far too long to be listed here but we will try to showcase a few.

As always, the City Welfare Mission in Ironton does so much to provide food and gifts to families at Christmas. They serve hundreds of families in need and can always use more donations.

Food pantries in Ironton and the Chesapeake Community Center always see their pantries run thin during this season. A few cans of food may not mean much to some people but it may be the world to others who would go to bed hungry otherwise.

The United Way of the River Cities is wrapping up its charitable campaign season and could use help to get to its goal. The United Way is a good organization that leverages your money with other donations to get the most impact per dollar.

The Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals group is working hard to keep the Secret Santa program sledding along for yet another year.

And these are just a few of the groups that are doing their part to make a difference.

If you are one of those who are fortunate enough not to be in need this year, please don’t forget about those who are not so lucky.

Let’s make this year a true season of giving that surpasses all others.