Christmas is a time for charity

How many of us have benefited from the work of a charity in the last year? The range of possibilities is diverse, including anything from Animal Welfare to Cancer Research and from the St John's Ambulance to the Samaritans.

Everyone who's visited one or our museums, or perhaps found a bargain in a charity shop, can count themselves in, as can those who've stayed at a YMCA or listened to hospital radio.

Addicted, abused, homeless, war-torn, unemployed, and most people with health, disability or care needs will have received some level of charitable support from the fantastic array of help available to people living in Maidstone & the Weald.

I mention this now because I visit many such organisations at this time of the year and it is clear that their needs are ever greater as the squeeze on funding and staffing becomes tighter.

It is always a good time to give and at Christmas the needs of many are magnified. But giving doesn't have to mean money. Giving a little of your time or resources can be just as valuable.

You might consider calling a charity close to your heart. There is a good listing in the 'Voluntary Organisations' page in the community & living section of Maidstone Borough Council's website http://www.maidstone.gov.uk/ .

Another possibility might be Voluntary Action Maidstone. Started in 1975 VAM have grown enormously and now offer a range of opportunities for volunteers to provide services to organisations and individuals helping older people, people with disabilities, people with mental health problems and carers. Visit the website http://www.vam-online.org.uk/ or call 01622 677337.

I am sure readers of the Kent Messenger will join me in wishing grateful thanks and Christmas goodwill to the many who achieve so much, with so little, in our local charities.

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