Charity seems to be something Brookhaven area residents have in abundance, and there is no better time than Christmas to reach out and help those in need.

For 10 years now, the Bank of Brookhaven and Daily Leader Holiday Food Pantry has served as a clearinghouse for donations to multiple local organizations working to provide food and basic services for the most needy among us.

Since this year’s Holiday Food Pantry drive began the day before Thanksgiving, $1,220 has been contributed, but much more is needed in order to make Christmas brighter for those in need. Last year’s drive saw $9,200 raised, and there is still time to help make 2013 a record year for this charitable effort. But the drive concludes at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, so time is limited to help make a difference this year.

Monetary contributions can be mailed to The Daily Leader, P.O. Box 551, Brookhaven, MS 39602, or dropped off at the newspaper office at 128 N. Railroad Ave. Monday through Friday.

Donations also can be mailed to the Bank of Brookhaven or taken to any of the bank’s tellers during bank hours.

Recipient ministries and nonprofits this year include Bethel AME Church, the Greater Hope Foundation, St. Francis of Assisi/St. Vincent de Paul, St. Paul M.B. Church and Union Hall Baptist Church. Proceeds will be divided evenly among the organizations during the week before Christmas.

The holidays are one of the most important times for charities serving the needy. Your donations to the Holiday Food Pantry will allow the recipient ministries to help more people this Christmas and help ensure their pantry shelves remain stocked and ready as the new year begins.

As we enter this joyous season, let us not forget to show charity to our neighbors. Please take a few minutes from your busy schedule this week to make a gift to the Holiday Food Pantry before the drive concludes Friday afternoon.