This Empty Stockings feature is printed every year on the Sunday after Thanksgiving to present the Wish and Need lists of Helena area nonprofit organizations that assist families and individuals in various ways throughout the year.

It is heartwarming to see, year after year, your outpouring of love, time, gifts, donations and contributions to help these organizations and agencies help our neighbors in need. A pair of mittens, a basket of food, items such as pencils or a playground ball can make a difference.

On behalf of the IR and the organizations who have sent us their lists, thank you -- the individuals, families, groups, businesses, clubs -- everyone in our community, for your warmhearted response to past Empty Stockings requests. Happy holidays!

RMDC HEAD START

200 South Cruse Ave.

457-7308

Rocky Mountain Development Council serves about 270 3- and 4-year-old children every year. Ninety of the children who attend Head Start live in poverty. All year long RMDC Head Start is grateful for the care and generosity shown by the community to families in need. Most especially at Christmas, your donations are appreciated.

Head Start is in need of boy's and girl's sweat pants and underwear sizes 4-6, as well as Pullups. Head Start can also use socks for children's shoe sizes 10-12. Tiny preschool mittens for ages 3-5 are also appreciated.

Head Start will put to good use gently used or new preschool-age books, including board books.

Because of tight budgets, Head Start does not purchase Sticky Notes and would be grateful for donated pads of Sticky Notes.

Finally, your cash donations for either literacy materials or emergency funds to assist families throughout the year are appreciated.

For information, contact Janet Coughlin, RMDC Head Start, PO Box 1717, Helena, MT 59624; 457-7334; www.rmdc.net.

INTERMOUNTAIN

500 S. Lamborn

442-7920

www.intermountain.org

Intermountain is seeking holiday assistance for the Intensive Day Treatment. This program serves children ages 5-12, in the greater Helena area, with significant relationship and behavioral disturbances.

Students attend school year around and receive therapeutic services. The program is unique in that Intermountain is able to focus on the entire family system and expect 100 percent family participation.

This is a great program for Helena because the children have exceeded the resources of public schools. The teacher, counselor and therapist are able to work with the child, and their family, so that they can eventually return to public schools. An important part of this program is that the child gets to go home at night so their homelife isn't disrupted.

Intermountain is in need of a digital camera, microwave, baseball mitts, head lamps, carousel ride tickets, movie tickets, photo paper and drawing supplies.

GOOD SAMARITAN MINISTRIES

3067 N. Montana

442-0780

Thank you, Helena, for supporting our ministries in the 2007 year, which supported literally hundreds of individuals and families who have come upon hard times or are poor, ignored and forgotten in the community.

Good Samaritan Ministries and the Cathedral of St. Helena Parish will be collaborating with Christmas Community Sharing to provide Christmas baskets for those in need. In addition, our Adopt-A-Family program will be matching families in-need to families who would like to adopt a family for Christmas. If you are interested in adopting a family please call Julee. Every effort will be made to match you with a family that best fits your availability.

Please remember Good Samaritan Ministries throughout the year as we will continue to need your support to meet our mission of serving the poor, forgotten and ignored in the community.

Donations to our Thrift Store and financial supports fund our Assistance to the Needy Ministry. This ministry provides the following: emergency utility assistance, urgent medical travel, limited prescriptions, household furnishings, clothing or food assistance from our small food bank.

Volunteers are always needed in the store between the hours of 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday. Please remember to donate your unused or unwanted items for the Thrift Store or for our recycling program. Donations are also accepted during these times as well.

Good Samaritan Ministries is the social justice arm of the diocese of Helena.

We thank the Catholic parishes, the many other denominations, companies, private businesses, individuals, groups and clubs that support Good Samaritan Ministries to meet the increasing needs in the growing community of Helena.

If you would like to volunteer or adopt a family for Christmas please call 442-0780.

Center for Mental Health Foundation

900 North Jackson

PO Box 744

Helena, MT 59624

443-7151

The Center for Mental Health (formerly Golden Triangle) provides comprehensive mental health services for adults, families, individuals and children.

- A single mom has two boys age 8 and 11. Since her separation from her husband, her monthly income has dramatically shrunk. She struggles with a bipolar and anxiety disorder and can only work temporary positions. Her 11-year-old is autistic but is able to function well in school; her 8-year-old suffers from highs and lows due to his family's emotional and medical issues. Their immediate needs: Snow pants, sizes 10, 12; winter gloves; boots, size 3½, 4½ boys; winter caps; flannel pjs, sizes 10/12; slippersocks for mom. Gifts: passes to YMCA, bowling, Broadwater Adventure Zone; used TV; DVD player with family DVDs; books -- Magic Treehouse series, Bionicles series, and for Mom, paperback mysteries by Dean Koontz and John Saul. Please drop off unwrapped gifts to the Center for Mental Health and write "Dan Carlson-Thompson" on the bag. Questions? Call Michelle: 443-7151.

- A single mom has a 10-year-old son, who is seen by the family/youth therapist at the center. He likes to build things with construction toys. He would like a crane and flatbed truck made by Tonka and any Hot Wheels cars. Donation of clothes are welcome (size boy's large or men's small). The family needs bedding for queen- and twin-size beds. The family plays games and works puzzles. Remember Mom in your holiday shopping with a gift card to a discount store. She also needs a tool set. Questions? Call Synda: 443-7151.

- Hannaford House -- Therapeutic Group Home:

Located at 925 Hannaford St., this group home provides a living environment for eight residents who require short- to long-term transitional care in a structured setting. Each resident strives to meet specific expectations and objectives in a level system in order to increase responsible behavior and be prepared to live independently.

Items that are needed for the Hannaford House: bed sheet sets for twin-size beds, bed comforters, bathroom towel sets, DVDs rated PG through PG-17.

Gift suggestions for individual residents: winter gloves, scarves, caps, gift cards to purchase coats and shoes, books and craft projects. Staff will wrap the gifts. Please mark gifts "Hannaford House" and bring to the Center for Mental Health, 900 N. Jackson.

Center for Mental Health, formerly known as Golden Triangle Community Mental Health Center, is a private, nonprofit organization serving 13 counties in Central Montana. Each year, the Center's 300 employees serve over 4,200 individuals, more than 700 of whom are children.

Offices are located in Boulder, Browning, Chinook, Choteau, Conrad, Cut Bank, Great Falls, Havre, Helena, Lincoln, Shelby, Townsend, Whitehall, and White Sulphur Springs. For more information please call 1-888-718-2100 or visit www.center4mh.org. All cash and in-kind gifts to CMH are tax-deductible.

CAREER TRAINING INSTITUTE

347 N. Last Chance Gulch

443-0800

Career Training Institute is seeking holiday assistance for low-income families in our community. The people served at CTI receive training and case management services to help them become employed. Holiday gifts would be appreciated for the following individuals working hard to become self-supporting.

- A single mom in training and part-time employment, with two small children would appreciate pots and pans, gloves and winter boots (size 6½). Her 6-year-old daughter likes "princess stuff" and needs winter boots (size 10) and a hat and gloves. Her 3-year-old son would like a "Thomas the Tank" engine toy. He needs a snowsuit (size 4T), hat and gloves.

- A local mom needs size 14 clothes and would appreciate jeans and shirts. Her 13-year-old daughter is also in need of clothing: jeans and shirts (women size 3) and teen DVDs. Her 7-year-old would like Pet Shop bobble heads, Disney movies, and Password Journals.

- A young mom has requested diapers and clothing for her 2-month-old son (size 0-3 months).

- A family with three young children has requested the following:

Girl age 7: "Hannah Montana" items

Boy age 6: a fire truck

Boy age 4: likes monkeys and football

- A newly employed mom with two young daughters would appreciate fuel assistance for her family.

Her 5-year-old wears a size 6X and likes "anything princess."

Her 2-year-old likes "anything Dora" and wears size 18 mos. bottoms and 2T tops.

- When asked, this mother's holiday request was, "wanting my child to have a nice Christmas." She is completing training at CTI and has requested winter clothing for her 2-year-old (wears size 4T).

- A Helena mother involved in on-the-job training is in need of tennis shoes, size 6½. Her daughter, age 9, would like a Bratz doll or "Shrek 3" DVD. This child needs jeans (size 7R) and pajamas (size 9/10).

- Several families noted that their growing children are in need of shoes and winter boots. Gift cards would enable parents to shop with their children to select the correct sizes.

- Other families who have recently found housing are in need of kitchen items, particularly pots and pans.

The CTI staff is most grateful for the assistance provided to families during the holiday season. Thank you.

FLORENCE CRITTENTON HOME

901 N. Harris

442-6950 ext. 204

Since 1900, Florence Crittenton Home has maintained a strong tradition of caring for young women, infants and children, serving over 15,000 mothers, babies and adoptive families over the last 107 years.

Today we are recognized as a leading licensed therapeutic maternity home in the Northwest, providing the highest level of care for at-risk teen moms and their babies. As Montana's only licensed maternity home, we provide a therapeutic residential setting for up to 16 pregnant and parenting teens ranging in age from 13-19 and their babies.

We support pregnant moms as they decide whether to make an adoption plan for their baby or parent their baby. We help parenting moms become the best mothers they can be for their babies and gain the skills to create a bright future. And for the babies...well, we give them all the love we can and teach their moms to do that, too.

Our girls and their babies will be spending the holiday season here at Florence Crittenton with our staff who work 24 hours per day to provide love and support. The holidays at the home will be modest this year.

Our hope is that the community will open their hearts to the girls, babies, and toddlers to enable them to have a memorable and joyous holiday. In fact, this will be the first holiday season for many of our babies. We are so thankful for the ongoing generosity of the Helena community. May the joy of the holiday season fill your hearts.

This year the girls' holiday wish list includes:

- Gift certificates: clothing, coffee, restaurants, bowling and movies

- Everything hair: straightening irons, crimpers, dryers, curling irons, clips, ties, barrettes

- Warm things: gloves, mittens, hats, scarves, hooded sweatshirts

- Feel pretty: teen makeup, nail polish, perfume, inexpensive jewelry, watches

- Self expression: phone cards, postage stamps, stationery, address books, disposable cameras, picture frames, photo albums, journal, gel pens, art supplies, day planners

This year the babies' and toddlers' holiday wish list includes:

- Books, movies, music: books for baby and toddler, children's DVDs, music CDs for baby and toddler

- Baby toys: gyms and playmates, rattles & teethers, stacking & sorting, building & playsets

- Toddler toys: learning toys, pretend play, riding toys, arts & crafts, blocks, 4-piece puzzles, outside riding toys

SALVATION ARMY

1905 Henderson

442-8244

There are angels among us. They pass for ordinary people. Yet, they perform small miracles. They work, unnoticed, feeding the hungry, saving the lonely from despair, helping the lost find their way. When they are done they don't fly away, they walk.

The Salvation Army is a Christian charitable organization that serves people throughout the year in times of crisis and throughout the year in times of need. This year the Salvation Army could use your help in the following areas:

- Angel Trees -- Take a card off of any of the Salvation Army Angel Trees, purchase the gift requested and return it to that Angel Tree. The Salvation Army will get the gift to a child in need.

- Bell ringers -- we need friendly, smiling people to ring the bells during the Christmas season. Volunteer for a 2- to 8-hour shift. You can either ring by yourself or as a group.

- Adopt A Family -- This is an opportunity for your family or business to provide Christmas dinner and gifts for a family in need this holiday season.

- Volunteers are always needed to help set up and distribute the food and gifts.

- Donate on-line to our kettle at

www.salvationarmyusa.org. Click on the "Start Today" button and then put "Helena" in the group kettle name and hit enter.

For more information about these opportunities call 442-8244.

AREA IV AGENCY ON AGING AT RMDC

200 South Cruse Ave.

457-7352 or 447-1680

Area IV Agency on Aging (AoA) is a part of Rocky Mountain Development Council and serves people age 60+ and their families in six counties. Throughout the year, AoA provides direct assistance to those faced with significant life changes and needs due to ill health and the aging process. We have a staff that visits people in their homes as needed, assesses their needs, and helps to set up services that improve their quality of life. Funds from AoA provide a large portion of the cost of home-delivered meals and senior center meals. And AoA is the "go to" place that assists many hundreds of seniors sort through plans and sign up for Medicare coverage. The agency also provides ombudsman services for assisted living and nursing home residents and administers the Home and Community Based Services (or Medicaid "waiver") Program (HCBS). HCBS allows people who would otherwise need to be in a personal care home or nursing home the chance to stay where they are and receive services in their home of choice. Our goal is to help seniors remain as independent as possible and allow them to age with dignity.

We have been fortunate to serve many people this year again who have come to our agency for assistance and can use some cheer.

1. This gentleman is newly living on his own and needs just a few things: a tea kettle, a full-size bedspread/comforter (western or woodsy theme) and western theme pictures for his wall.

2. Last year "C" received many wood craft items to paint and decorate. She was thrilled with what she received and painted them all to give them as gifts. She would like more. She also might like sugar-free candy (no nuts) for a special treat.

3. This lady has survived four bouts of cancer and now has Parkinson's disease. She has no family in Montana and could use a long distance phone card. She also needs two medium-density bed pillows, St. Ives Body Lotion and shampoo (Head and Shoulders or Pantene with shampoo and conditioner in one).

4. "M" has end stage renal failure and her husband is her caregiver. They have a mature dog that uses Science Diet mature dog food and can use a Town Pump gas card to help them get around.

5. More Little Debby Oatmeal Pies, a pair of size 10 boot-type slippers and size small men's sweats for this veteran who appreciated the pies very much last year.

6. A person may gain a few years but keep their youthful interests -- this lady loves celebrity magazines (do they come in large type?). She could also use size large pajamas that tie or have loose elastic, and size 11 tie shoes. She writes poetry and enjoys displaying it on pretty writing paper.

7. Here is a woman who spent her younger life working with people in need until her health failed. She would enjoy a bathroom set (rug, towels, etc.) in blue and a size large woman's blouse that buttons. Red is a favorite color to wear.

8. This creative and colorful lady loves her cats. She can use clumping cat litter and good quality dry cat food for the cats. And for herself, shampoo and conditioner, Hershey's with almonds, and a universal remote control.

9. "M" has very limited mobility and is a voracious reader. She could use newly released novels and cat food.

10. "H" is a 90-year-old lady who loves Tom Selleck. She has the time of his show written on her walker so she won't miss it (a Tom Selleck picture perhaps)? She is also an artist and could use a set of colored pencils and paper to draw on.

11. This lady is recently widowed and is wheelchair-bound from Parkinson's. She could use a pair of shoes size 6½ wide and perhaps a calendar with cats.

12. "A" is a gentleman who loves to decorate BIG for all holidays. A sports magazine, calendar and whatever showy holiday decorations that can be found would bring a smile.

13. Beading helps "C" to express her creative side and also to give gifts of her making. She would enjoy a selection of beads or a gift coupon to a bead store and a Wal-Mart coupon for necessities.

14. A grandmother and senior companion has taken on the role of parenting her 14-year-old grandchild. All she wishes is to have a gift of clothing to give to her granddaughter. She wears a 14 "slim" in slacks and a 12 or 14 for tops (in youth sizes).

15. We have several people on our list who are very sensitive to food additives and could use gift coupons for The Real Food Store.

16. A very specific request for this small senior lady -- a cardigan sweater that has pockets and no collar, size medium.

17. A 62-year-old veteran in an electric wheelchair has a 93-year-old dad who lives in Great Falls. He would like to visit his dad and owns a hand-driven van, but lacks gas money. Gas coupons would be good.

18. This lady served as a senior companion and now is on oxygen and not able to get out much. When she does she needs a warm coat, size L or XL -- preferable not too heavy for her to carry -- or a gift certificate to help her pay for one.

19. A gift certificate to a plant nursery would be nice for this lady surviving cancer who loves to plant spring flowers but has no money left in her budget to do so.

20. "A" is an 80+ dynamo who had to leave her cat and move to assisted living. Her wants are very simple -- Kleenex, costume jewelry (used is fine) -- and perhaps a special gift would be one of those lifelike kitties from the nature store at the mall.

21. "L" is wheelchair bound with a spinal disease and diabetes. She could use an extra large cotton lap blanket (pastel pinks and /or lavenders) that she can wrap up in, and nonscented (or lightly scented) body powders and lotions for skin care.

22. A large-type brightly colored book on nature with lots of photos would cheer this lady in her 90s who proudly informs you she still has all her original teeth.

23. "F" crochets "scrubbies" for her family and friends and is in constant need of the netting for making them. She also appreciated the wonderful calendar with Bible verses that she received last year.

24. "EF" just lost a beloved son, and most of the rest of her family is out of state. A long distance phone card and perhaps a photo album to compile a memory book of her son would be thoughtful gifts.

25. "D" is 98 years old and still lives on her own. She is getting smaller and now needs some new clothes -- size petite small polyester slacks would be nice.

26. A spunky 96-year-old lady still lives with a flair. Her motto is: "Never lose the passion!" She could use a pretty sweater size medium, Town Pump gas cards and perhaps some chocolate.

There are many items on our wish list that are in constant demand and some that are favorites:

- $10 and $20 gift cards to discount stores such as Wal-Mart, Kmart, Shopko, & Target. These are always wonderful gifts for our clients.

- Grocery store gift cards are good too, such as Safeway, Albertsons or Thriftway

- Gift cards for gas -- Town Pumps are located in many places and easily accessible for most.

- Gift coupons for Home Delivered Meals (call 447-1680 to arrange)

- Dinners "out" are rare treats. Perkins and IHOP seem to be favorites -- and Macaroni Grill would be a special treat.

- Gift certificates to the Good Samaritan Thrift Shop

- Dog and cat food and treats (pets are sometimes the only companion of our older clients).

- Cleaning supplies and home care products such as paper towels, laundry soap, and all purpose cleaners.

- Personal items such as toilet paper and Kleenex, and intensive care body lotions, shampoo, conditioner, and bath soaps that are unscented or lightly scented.

- Fleece blankets, small quilts, lap throws.

- 2008 calendars, especially those with Bible or landscape and country themes. A large type is good for aging eyes.

- Postage stamps.

- Videos.

- Single-serve coffee bags and teas.

- Regular ground coffees.

- Sweets of all kinds including sugar-free for those individuals with diabetes -- Parrot or See's candy is always a special treat.

- Talking books (Western books especially).

- Country music and Christmas music CDs.

Items may be dropped off at Rocky Mountain Development Council in the Neighborhood Center, 200 South Cruse, Helena. Please identify them to go to the Area IV Agency on Aging Empty Stockings and designate if they are for a specific person on the list. You may call 752-7368 or 1-800-551-3191 for additional information about the programs or gifts, or if you would like one of us to come and pick up your donation. We always appreciate knowing your name and address too, so we can send "thanks" individually.

In keeping respect for the people receiving these gifts, we request new or unused items. AoA staff must have items by Friday, Dec. 14, and will deliver gifts during the week of Dec. 17, to ensure they are received by Christmas.

Thank you for your immense generosity each year! We only wish you could all see the joy these small things bring.

ST. PETER'S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

2475 Broadway

444-2370

foundation@stpetes.org

www.stpetes.org

Founded in 1883, St. Peter's Hospital is a community owned, nonprofit hospital that cares for every single person who comes through our doors, regardless of insurance or personal finances.

Gifts to help patients and families in medical crisis, and to support all services provided by the hospital, are managed by St. Peter's Foundation.

Whether a $25 memorial gift for hospice, a $10,000 gift for dialysis equipment or an unrestricted bequest in a personal will, gifts to St. Peter's Foundation help provide care that wouldn't otherwise be there.

Gifts to the Foundation are used in three main ways:

- Providing direct financial assistance to patients and families in medical crisis.

- Subsidizing special services, such as Hospice, Lifeline Units and Cardio-Pulmonary Rehabilitation to insure everyone who needs them receives them.

- Funding new equipment and improvements in the hospital that benefit our entire community.

Every single day, 365 days a year, hundreds of our family, friends and neighbors depend on St. Peter's Hospital for health and healing. In addition to the new cancer center, new dialysis unit and modern cancer and cardiac technology, gifts to the Foundation provide help when people need it most.

Here are some typical scenarios:

- Patient presented to clinical dietician at St. Peter's with out-of-control diabetes. Had endured 50-lb. weight loss, blood sugar readings off the scale, couldn't afford to go to doctor. Was trying to "wait out" next nine months until qualified for Medicare. High risk for coma and hospitalization.

St. Peter's Foundation paid for an immediate physician visit and helped negotiate on-going care to prevent hospitalization until Medicare coverage began.

- Patient was an infant on breathing equipment at home in small one-bedroom apartment. Hospitalized once already for high temperature due to hot home environment from summer temp and all the medical equipment. Future hospitalizations likely without help.

St. Peter's Foundation purchased a small window air conditioner, resulting in a cooler apartment, better care and no further hospi-talizations.

- New at-home, hemodialysis patient with 16-month-old baby. A week of intensive training required for her and husband, together, to learn how to safely do dialysis at home.

St. Peter's Foundation provided for one week of childcare so both parents could learn safe, effective home dialysis.

- Patient to be discharged with serious leg wounds is living in his van. It is mid-February and without proper care the leg will not heal. Future hospitalization likely.

St. Peter's Foundation provided three nights' motel lodging, giving patient a warm, clean place to heal. Repeat hospitalization avoided.

- Patient, a 4-week-old baby, newly diagnosed with stomach cancer, requires immediate treatment at the Mayo Clinic. Parents are young, lack financial resources.

St. Peter's Foundation provided parents with travel funds to accompany baby.

EAGLES MANOR

715 Fee St.

442-0610

The Eagles Manor serves the elderly and disabled population of the greater Helena area by providing comfortable, affordable housing.

The residents of Eagles Manor would greatly appreciate the donation of the following items: Exercise equipment; books; magazines; craft supplies and kits; movies; music CDs or tapes; jigsaw puzzles; art supplies; trivia; games; holiday decorations; CD/tape player; small light pet carriers; old cell phones with chargers; computer programs and games; people to carol and spread some holiday cheer. Thank you and have a blessed holiday season!

BIG SKY CARE CENTER

2475 Winne Ave.

442-1350

Big Sky Care Center cares for elderly residents who are unable to live independently for age and health reasons.

The center is home to about 100 men and women who have a wide range of interests and abilities.

Empty Stockings has always been very good to us. In the past we received DVD and VHS players and were able to purchase our low-vision projection machine for our vision-impaired residents with the help of Empty Stockings. Our residents have enjoyed all of the different bingo items also.

Items needed this year include old-time movies -- the residents love John Wayne; CDs and players with headphones -- easy listening, Christmas, spiritual and any other music; headphones for TVs for our hearing impaired residents; paperback books (Western and romance); holiday candy (regular and sugar free); jewelry, baby clothes, women's red hats, curling irons -- any items that will bring back home memories; prizes for Bingo -- small items such as dream catchers, makeup, candy bars, figurines, crosswords and word search books. Items can be delivered Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Merry Christmas from the Activities Department.

THE ANGEL FUND

816 So. California St.

442-2604

mmwall@bresnan.net

The Angel Fund is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation that helps K-12 Helena School District children with necessary school items including school clothes, shoes, winter coats, school supplies, backpacks, field-trip fees, project materials and other school expenses to families needing assistance.

The Angel Fund also awards scholarships to qualified seniors at Helena High and Capital High to be used for postsecondary education at an accredited Montana college or university. The Angel Fund has started its 18th school year helping children in Helena.

Because referrals are varied, monetary donations are very much appreciated -- a donation would make a difference in a child's life! The Angel Fund's philosophy -- "pay it forward," a concept of giving to others to make the world a better place -- instills community and kindness. The children we help today will help others in the future. The Angel Fund is changing the world one child at a time!

Thank you Helena for your continued suppport and generous spirit!

FRIENDSHIP CENTER

1430 Sanders

442-6800

The Friendship Center provides safe shelter and a broad range of support services to victims of domestic and sexual violence and their children. In 2006, the center served 883 survivors of these terrible crimes, including 332 children. All services are free and confidential. Victims come to The Friendship Center with nothing and are in great need of basic items as they begin to rebuild their lives.

Current needs include:

1. A mother with two children needs Pull-Ups (boy size L girl size M) and underwear size 8 for herself and socks size 7.

2. Several women would love to have a gift certificate to get their hair cut.

3. A mother of five needs a rocker/recliner to rock and read stories to her children.

4. A working mom with an older model car needs to get her oil changed and would love a gift certificate.

5. A mom with three children just moved into their own apartment and needs cleaning supplies and garbage bags.

6. A young mother needs a portable crib/playpen and a stroller.

7. A family just moved into an apartment and desperately needs a kitchen table with chairs and dressers to store their clothes.

8. A family of five is finally safe, but working hard to rebuild their lives. They would love gift cards for a dinner out and a movie to be able to relax and have fun for an evening.

9. The Friendship Center's "Yellow Submarine" playroom needs a dependable and durable TV.

CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES

301 11th Ave.

442-4130 (Margaret Foster)

Catholic Social Services is a charitable organization serving both young parents and expectant parents. It is in special need of diapers and baby items for babies under the age of 2.

Items can be dropped off between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., M-F, at 25 S. Ewing, Room 514.

MONTANA DEVELOPMENTAL CENTER

P.O. Box 87 or

310 S. 4th Ave.

Boulder, MT 59632

225-4482 (Deb Bishop)

dbishop@mt.gov

Montana Developmental Center is the state center for our developmentally disabled citizens who require intensive services. Our residents look forward to Christmas with great anticipation. The center relies on donated funds and items to meet the multitude of needs and desires.

Monetary donations are used to shop for individual needs, to purchase gifts for Christmas and throughout the year. Items needed include everyday necessities, clothing, hygiene products, recreation items such as sporting goods and arts/crafts supplies and, as always, edible treats! Nearly new or gently used items go to the general store where our residents shop free of charge year-round.

Our wish list includes:

Belts and neckties; gloves and mittens; socks -- all sorts; winter hats; winter coats; boots; slippers; athletic shoes; sweatshirts and pants; sweaters; athletic jerseys; baseball caps; suit coats; jeans and pants; shirts and blouses; day packs; fanny packs;

All types of balls; Nerf and koosh balls; discs for Folf; items with professional sport logos; story and picture books; binoculars and field guides; piano-type keyboards; Nintendo-type games; hand-held games; easy board games; puzzle books; card games and playing cards; camera and film; swimming goggles;

Jewelry (men's and women's); watches; afghans, comforters and bedding; relaxing sound machines; table fountains; aromatherapy; bird feeders and seed; dvd and vhs movies; headphones; Walkman-type cd players;

cds: country/western; contemporary; classical; Native American; rock; relaxation;

Hair bows, clips, scrunchies, barrettes, etc.; shampoo and conditioner; hand and body lotion; bubble bath; toothpaste and toothbrushes; deodorant/antiperspirant; electric shaving products only; cologne/aftershave (in plastic); perfume and body mists; nice hygiene baskets/kits; heat wraps -- hands, feet, back, neck;

Gum, regular and sugar free; candy, regular and sugar free; cookies, boxed treats, etc.; crackerjack-type products; chips; dried fruit; dry drink mixes such as coffee, hot chocolate, hot cider, regular and sugar free.

Items need to arrive by Dec. 21; and donors should include their name and address so we can acknowledge their donation for tax purposes. Thank you for thinking of us at this busy time of year.

TOYS FOR TOTS

P.O. Box 4382

Helena, MT 59604

458-6256

For the 29th year in Helena, Toys for Tots collection barrels have been placed at strategic locations throughout the city. There are 48 drop-off points including WalMart, Kmart, ShopKo, Broadwater, J-4 Automotive, Valley Hub and Hunter's Pointe.

Toys For Tots is a nonprofit organization developed in 1947 by the Los Angeles Marine Corps Reserve that has been adopted in Montana by volunteers from every area of military service. TFT provides toys to area children who would otherwise receive none for Christmas. The Marine Corps League is counting on the Helena area, once again, to fill the need.

TFT needs toys of all kinds and sizes for children and teens -- gifts suitable for children infants to age 15. Only new and unopened toys and gifts, please.

Toys For Tots is sponsoring a toy giveaway on Dec. 21 and Dec. 22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (or longer, if needed) at the Salvation Army Gym, 1905 Henderson, for the children in Helena and surrounding area who are in need.

We welcome everyone who may need assistance providing gifts for their children. Again this year, families will be required to register with the Salvation Army to expedite the giveaway and to reduce the amount of time people would spend outside due to poor weather conditionns. To register call Susan at 442-8244 by Dec. 19.

RMDC HOME DELIVERED MEALS PROGRAM

200 S. Cruse Ave.

457-7361

The Home Delivered Meals Program provides a healthy well-balanced noontime meal Monday-Friday to nearly 100 seniors in the Helena area who are homebound due to illness or physical limitations.

Monetary donations to supplement funding for the meals program and gift certificates for individuals are most appreciated.

For something special, our clients enjoy occasional tray favors with their meals. These are particularly appreciated throughout the year for holidays, but ANY time they receive that "something extra" with their meal, it is a treat.

Donations may be dropped off at the receptionist's office in the Neighborhood Center between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or mailed to the address above.

MONTANA'S VOICE

ON MENTAL ILLNESS

NAMI-MT

P.O. Box 1021

443-7871

Montana State Hospital can be a very lonely place during the holiday season. Patients at Montana State Hospital have often had harrowing experiences due to the results of biological brain disorders resulting in psychiatric disabilities.

Gifts with a lift, sponsored by NAMI-MT-- Montana's Voice on Mental Illness -- is a program offering support and encouragement to Montana citizens affected by serious mental illness who are spending the Christmas season in treatment at Montana State Hospital.

If you, your family, or your service group can help out with any of the following items, or want more information, call 443-7871.

Gift suggestions include: Pocket games, books and stationary, wallets, fanny packs, hair-care items, tube socks, slippers, cosmetics, sweaters, hats, gloves, CDs or cassette tapes, Walkmans, radios, batteries, magazine subscriptions, craft kits, and cash donations to purchase gift items.

We can use wrapping paper and gift boxes. It is not necessary to wrap the gifts. They are sorted and inspected at the hospital.

Include your name and address for a return receipt. Please have donations ready by Dec. 15. Cash donations are accepted to purchase additional gift items.

Gift box sites are located at NAMI-MT, 616 Helena Ave. #218, Helena, between 1-3 p.m., Monday through Friday; and at the Day Treatment Program located at 900 Jackson St.; or mail to Gifts With A Lift, c/o Cheryl Eamons, Montana State Hospital, Warm Springs, MT 59756.

HEALTH DEPARTMENT

HOME VISITORS

1930 9th Ave.

457-8964

The home visitors are a part of the Lewis and Clark County Health Department serving pregnant women and parents in order to strengthen families.

Throughout the year we provide direct in-home services to families in various stages of transition.

Often our families are struggling financially and may be working hard to make ends meet.

With the varied needs of our families, monetary donations are always appreciated.

Other ideas include hats and mittens for the children; gas and oil change certificates to keep parents employed and making it to work; diapers; car seats for safe travel; and gift certificates for drop-in child care so parents can make their appointments and the children can enjoy the company of other youngsters.

If you have a donation, it can be dropped off at or mailed to the Health Department.

Please identify it as a donation for the Home Visitors program. You can also arrange to have donations picked up by calling Marci at 457-8964.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF HELENA

30 W. 6th

442-7479

bbbs@bbbs-helena.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Helena matches children from single-parent homes with caring, positive adults in a one-to-one mentoring match. BBBSH provides three programs in Helena: Community Mentoring, which matches children ages 6-14; School Mentoring, which partners high school students with elementary school students; and Business Mentoring, which partners local business employees with schools to match children in the on-site program.

School and Business Mentoring matches meet at the school during lunch or after school. Community Mentoring matches meet for two hours a week and partake in fun activities like hiking, going to a sporting event, watching a movie, baking cookies -- anything that the match wants to do together!

Program expenses include child and mentor screening, assessment, matching, match planning, match supervision, evaluation and activities. BBBSH serves nine elementary schools, one middle school, and more than 400 children in Helena.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Helena is in need of craft material and/or games for the school mentoring program, Polaroid film for use in taking match photos, tickets to sporting events, plays, or other activities for matches to enjoy together, and sponsors for group activities.

RMDC LIEAP

200 South Cruse Ave.

447-1625

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program at Rocky Mountain Development Council has created a special fund that offers unique assistance with power bill security deposits.

Last year a young woman in the Friendship Center secured a place of her own for a new start. She found her ex-husband had run up the utility bill and, because her name was on the bill, she was liable for payment and she had to pay the deposit. Two children, a new job, just paid a first and last months rent, plus deposit on an apartment -- she did not have anything to get the utilities turned on. Other sources helped with the old bill, but no one helped with the security deposit -- until she came to the LIEAP office.

A middle-aged gentleman was in a car accident and disabled for several months. He was not able to return to work and applied for disability. While waiting for Social Security to be approved, he was without income, depleted his savings and got behind in all his bills, despite some help from family. Utilities were turned off. Again other programs could help with old bills, but not with the $300 deposit. LIEAP assisted again.

This year so far 12 individuals have requested assistance and been turned down due to lack of funds. One of those continues to be without power, heating the home with wood. Your holiday donation to the LIEAP Security Deposit Fund will help a neighbor open the door to a warm home.

Contact Gayle Piocos at 447-1625 or send donation to Rocky Mountain Development Council, Attention: LIEAP Security Deposit Fund, PO Box 1717, Helena, MT 59624.