The SOS Caring for Community at Christmas program final numbers are in and more than $100,000 was raised, the Society of Organized Services announced last week.

As of Jan. 5, SOS had raised $108,962. That number was $6,038 short of SOS’s goal of $115,000 which was needed to meet the needs of low-income residents who register for the program.

Still, thanks to the community, said Lissa Alexander, communications director, SOS was able to help more children than ever before in the program’s 49-year history. This year, 1,248 local children received gifts, 1,146 adults received grocery store gift cards and 867 households were assisted.

As part of the Christmas program, SOS partners with the local Newcomers’ groups, whose members stuff stockings and bags of goodies for seniors, which are delivered by volunteers. This year, more than 200 stockings were delivered to local seniors and people in need, Alexander said.

The SOS Caring for Community and Christmas program ensures all local children and youth have a special gift to unwrap on Christmas morning, she added.

The program also enables families and individuals to enjoy a meaningful meal over the holidays, with dignity.

— NEWS Staff