It was a wakeup call to learn that the Holiday Baskets program that serves needy local families is itself in need.
The news contrasts starkly with the Sun Valley area's reputation as a wealthy enclave. The valley looks prosperous with well-decorated mansions dotting the landscape in every direction, but a shortage of holiday baskets tells the real story.
Working families have found their jobs in construction and real estate quickly drying up. With little snow, retail business and ski workers are suffering, too.
The Sawtooth Board of Realtors, which sponsors the program, reports that it received requests for 20 percent more food baskets this year. Those requests totaled 340, 51 more than last year. The program also is trying to respond to emergency requests.
It also aims to provide gifts for children under the age of 18. Most needed now are donors to adopt a child, at $30 per child. The money will provide warm winter clothes, boots and school supplies.
The program accepts cash donations of any amount. To sign up, call 720-2905. Volunteers are needed, too.
Checks in any amount may be sent to SBR Holiday Baskets, Box 1937, Ketchum, ID 83340.
The Holiday Baskets program is not the only truly charitable organization that helps needy families this time of year. Others include the Hunger Coalition, 788-0121, whose bright yellow donation bins are found at local grocery stores, and the Family Connection Project at 788-1779.
To allow valley families to suffer in these difficult times would be our shame. Everyone should share even more generously than usual.
