Christmas is just around the corner. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, with warm lights, good food and family. But for many, Christmas can be the most difficult time of the year.

Whether it’s a family that’s down on their luck, or a single parent struggling to make ends meet, Christmas is hard when money is tight. If a family is struggling to put food on the table, how can their children expect presents to be put under the tree?

There’s a way you can help. Since 1952, the Salisbury Post has been working with the Salvation Army of Rowan County to collect holiday donations and distribute them to families in need. It’s called Christmas Happiness, and it brings smiles and joy to dozens of families in Rowan County each year.

It can be more than just giving to those in need — donations can be dedicated to loved ones, alive and well or passed on, or made in honor of those who have touched our lives.

Don Connor, of Salisbury, donates to charity every Christmas. He’s been doing it for the past ten years, he says. And all of his donations are dedicated to his children, his son-in-law and daughter-in-law, and his grandchildren.

“If I’m going to do the donations,” he said, “I figure I might as well make it in honor of somebody.”

Connor says it adds a bit more warmth to his own family Christmases.

With your help, no child in Rowan County needs to spend the season without a little bit of sparkle, a little bit of happiness. All it takes is a heart full of warmth.

The Salvation Army of Rowan County distributes Christmas Happiness funds. Qualifying families may receive a $35 voucher for each eligible child. The vouchers can only be used for children’s items.

Contributions to Christmas Happiness will be collected through Christmas Day.

Donations may be delivered to the Salisbury Post, 131 W. Innes St., between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays. Or you can mail your gift, using this address: Salisbury Post Christmas Happiness Fund, P.O. Box 4639, Salisbury, N.C. 28145-4639. Please make checks payable to Christmas Happiness Fund and indicate how you want your donation listed.

Donations made Wednesday:

• In honor of Diane Labovitz, Happy Birthday by Elizabeth Muth … $10.00