'Tis the season for giving and nobody does it better than your local Salvation Army.

The Salem-based Salvation Army, under Captain John and Erin Brand, has busily been preparing for the holidays.

A big occasion is scheduled Friday at the Salem High School auditorium. Thanksgiving and praise will be given while food and proceeds will be accepted during a night featuring Christian-based recording artist Ashlie Marie who will be releasing her albums on CDs. Also featured will be the Master's Commission of Victory Christian Center of Lowellville and The Crossroad Ministries Praise Band of Salem. You have probably seen the multiple announcements of this event which we fully support on the pages of the Salem News.

Admission is free for an evening of sharing and caring. Attendees are asked to bring a canned food item. Donated food, of course, will help provide assistance through the Salvation Army for all the so many local residents it helps.

Friday's event, the Salem Thanksgiving Celebration, will begin at 7 p.m. It will be a major fund raiser for the Salvation Army. We certainly encourage your participation. In addition to the Brands, props go out to Pastor Freddie and Beth Rodriguez of Crossroad Ministries of Salem.

Of course, it won't be the only way you can help out. The Salvation Army bell ringers will be out and about during your holiday shopping season. Please do remember to make a contribution in those recognizable kettles. Every little bit can add up.

Erin Brand said that despite the local economy, donations are just a bit down; not as down as anticipated. That is a reflection on the kind-heartedness of our community. She said that economic hardships are nothing new confronting the Salvation Army. Brand did say that there has been an increase for food - which would make your donation of food items especially important.

The Salvation Army did not take on as many applicants for Christmas assistance. The organization has been networking with churches to provide assistance. Besides the food giveaways, there is a free hot lunch program distributed each Tuesday and Thursday.

Brand said that there has been a huge response this year from businesses, organizations and churches to host an angel tree. The project works like this: those coming into the Salvation Army for assistance may place a name - on an ornament of sorts - with Christmas wishes such as toys for children. In turn, those "adopting" a tree grant the wishes. It is a grand idea for giving and it has become popular in our area.

Giving is a trademark of the good people of our community. Let's all remember to do our part this coming holiday season, whether it's attending a celebration, dropping money in a kettle, providing food or helping with an angel tree. Those are your neighbors you are helping and many of them can use it.