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This year, more families are seeking a helping hand.

Nearly 575 local families have applied for assistance this year from the Salina Christmas Fund, a program that assists people in need with shelter, food, clothing, utilities, emergency assistance and other expenses throughout the year.

That's the highest number of applicants in the history of the fund, said Roxanne Matous, office manager and case worker for the Salvation Army in Salina, the organization that oversees the fund.

"I honestly think it's because of the economy and layoffs and reduction of hours here," she said. "That's affecting a lot of working families."

During the first two weeks of November, families in need applied for the Christmas Fund, as well as the Salvation Army's annual Angel Tree, toy shop, food box and Christmas for Clothing vouchers.

People who applied were required to supply proof of household income, Matous said, as well as provide identification for all members of the household.

Last year, Christmas Fund donations surpassed expectations, leaping from $21,000 in 2007 to $41,940 in 2008.

People who wish to donate to the Christmas Fund can mail donations to the Salina Christmas Fund, c/o Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1945, Salina, KS 67402-1945.

Kettle contributions

Financial donations given at Salvation Army kettles, manned by dedicated bell ringers at various locations throughout Salina, are used for the general Salvation Army fund to assist people with rent, utilities and other emergencies throughout the year, Matous said.

Last year, the Salvation Army raised $170,000 for its annual campaign through kettle contributions and private donations. Combined with the Christmas Fund, total contributions added up to $210,000, a $30,000 increase from 2007.

"We're counting on the public to help us out again this year," Matous said.

The Angel Tree is set up at Salina's Central Mall. It is covered with paper angels listing clothing sizes and other requests from children ages 12 and younger. Last year, 867 angels were taken from the tree by people pledging to buy clothing or other needed items for these children, Matous said.

Toy donations also will be accepted for the toy shop at the Salvation Army Community Center, 1137 N. Santa Fe. Donated toys will be given to children on Dec. 19, Matous said.

That's the same day Angel Tree clothing, Christmas for Clothing vouchers and food boxes will be distributed to applicants. Food boxes will include a turkey or ham and enough food for a family to enjoy a Christmas dinner.

Matous is confident enough funding, clothing and other needed items will be gathered to fill the increased demand this year.

"We're hoping to help everyone out," she said.

nReporter Gary Demuth can be reached at 822-1405 or by e-mail at gdemuth@salina.com.

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