Take the opportunity to help those in need this holiday season

Maybe one of the best holiday stories from a year ago was the success of the Salvation Army Kettle Campaign, the first-ever held here in Chickasaw County.By the time it ended, more than $10,000 had been raised and that money certainly went to good use in 2016 as the local service unit, which is sponsored by Conway-Markham Funeral Home, was able to, just to name a few, help clothe, feed and house a family displaced by a fire; assist a local resident escape an abusive relationship; and give comfort to a family that was taken to Mercy Medical Center-New Hampton after a terrible car wreck.For those who have shopped at Fareway and Theisen’s, the now-familiar sound of the Salvation Army bell ringing has already been heard this winter. yet, there are times, when the entrance to both stores is quiet.So Salvation Army officials like Kris and Liz Markham are borrowing a phrase from Uncle Sam. In short, “they want you.”We’ve had enough experience with bell ringing both here in New Hampton and elsewhere to know there are plenty of rewards to taking a couple of hours and manning a kettle. Not only are you helping those who need assistance the most but it’s also a fun way to meet friends and neighbors.So if you have an hour or two to spare, call the Markhams at 641-394-4331 and spread a little holiday cheer for a great cause.