A recent thread about the ever-popular "War on Christmas" included some remarks that served as a reminder, however tongue-in-cheek, that one might better celebrate the spirit of the season through philanthropy and charity than by continuing to beat the dead horses of secularism and commercialism.  In response, I posted this link to a post on Bakotopia in which the blogger, inspired by a personal encounter, is asking community members to help her collect supplies for our local homeless people.

I also mentioned that my own department here at the Californian, Interactive Media, is in the middle of a drive to make and distribute personal hygiene kits to the homeless in our community.  Several of you have already asked me how you can help, and so I'm posting our flyer and explanatory letter here.  We've already gotten great response, but we need help to reach our goal of 1,000 kits by Dec. 15.  Monetary donations (cash, money order, or checks made out to The Bakersfield Californian) toward supplies are most welcome, as are donations of actual kit supplies.  We are most in need of deodorant, toothpaste, and facecloths at the moment.

The flyer and letter have all the info you need (click the icons to download), but in short, you can mail donations or drop them off in the Californian's lobby at 1707 Eye St., 93301 (mail you can send to the attention of Angela Brown, Interactive Media).  And if you do drop by, feel free to ask the front desk to call me and I'll come up to say hi.

Thanks again for your help, support, and interest.  This is what makes this online community special.