This could be a challenging Christmas for many of your friends and neighbors in Centre County. Some are out of work. Others have had their homes foreclosed upon. And others are simply unable to meet their family’s basic needs or financial obligations.

That’s why local charitable organizations are counting on you to help provide some holiday cheer.

The Centre County United Way has already collected more than $1.7 million to help people in need, but it is significantly short of its intended goal of $2.4 million. United Way funds are used to support 40 local charitable organizations. Much of the donations are used to help your friends and neighbors buy food, acquire shelter, pay home heating bills and secure child care so that parents can work.

Earlier this year the United Way surveyed member organizations and found that 67 percent had absorbed cuts in state funding and 81 percent faced a higher demand for services. This year the needs are great and growing.

The Salvation Army is also looking for Drop-off locations include Mount Nittany Physician Group offices, Jersey Shore State Bank and Balfurd’s Cleaners.

If you are planning to make a tax deductible donation before the end of the year, now is the time to do so. Drop some money into the red kettle and help a neighbor. Gather up the coats that your family can no longer use and donate them to the coat drive. Send a check to the United Way and give the gift of cheer.

Your donation can mean the difference between the best and worst Christmas ever.