Dear Editor:
The time from Thanksgiving through December is particularly meaningful to me, as it provides an opportunity to reflect with family and appreciate the many blessings we enjoy. This season also offers ample opportunities to contribute positively to our community through various local organizations.
I wish to formally acknowledge Bi Mart and its customers for their continued support of the Red Cross. Every six weeks, I volunteer to gather the coins donated by Bi Mart patrons in the collection boxes at each register. The accumulated contributions have been impressive; to date in 2025, our community has donated $3,050, and a final collection is currently underway that will further increase this total.
Special recognition is due to unknown individuals who make notable donations, such as the person who regularly contributes a $50 bill, and another who creatively includes lottery tickets with their monetary gifts—though there have not yet been any winners, the gesture is appreciated. Appreciation is also extended to those who donate $5 and $10 bills, and to Citizens’ Bank on Olympic St. for their assistance with coin counting.
Initially, these funds were allocated to fire victims of the Holiday Farm Fire. Currently, they are directed to “Where It’s Needed Most,” ensuring flexibility so that resources can be applied across different needs and disaster responses.
As I express my gratitude to all contributors, I encourage continued generosity from our community. I remain committed to collecting these donations for as long as support persists.
Thank you and happy holidays,
Rae LaMarche,
Red Cross volunteer
