Needs and wishes for the homeless

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• A purposeful holiday shopping spree

  A purposeful holiday shopping spree

  President John F. Kennedy inspired a generation with his 1961 inaugural quote, “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.” Six years ago, Los Osans Richard Margetson and Jerri Walsh asked who besides county government was funding the Maxine Lewis Memorial Shelter in San Luis Obispo.

  “Twenty years ago, the shelter was intended to be temporary. It is still seven trailers welded together. A friends group was helping the Prado Day Center, but not the homeless shelter,” Margetson said.

  “We talked to a few friends and came up with Saturday’s holiday fundraising concept. Everything is donated. The community is so generous,” he added. “Most of the 30 original volunteers are now leading hundreds of volunteers and sponsors.

• 10 ways you can help those in need this season

  10 ways you can help those in need this season

  Sure, Christmas is a week away, but not to worry. There are still seven days to shop; still time to get those cards in the mail; and still plenty of ways to celebrate this season of giving by helping those in need.

  While some nonprofit organizations are wrapping up their toy and food drives, it’s not too late to contribute in some manner.

  Without further ado, here is a list of 10 ways you can make a difference during this holiday season. We suggest you try one or two; we guarantee it will lift your holiday spirits.

• Unsung Heroes: Toy Run’s cycle of giving

  Unsung Heroes: Toy Run’s cycle of giving

  It’s an arresting sight, the parade of hundreds of motorcyclists dressed in black leather cruising the highway, each one with a big teddy bear, a shiny truck, a new basketball or some other child’s toy strapped securely to the bike’s seat.

  For 30 years, the annual SLO County Toy Run has been turning heads, but it’s also been generating new toys — as many as 2,000 per year — for the holiday season, along with food, warm coats and baby clothes for families in need in San Luis Obispo and Northern Santa Barbara County.

  The event is open to all — not just motorcyclists — and the cost is minimal: a new, unwrapped toy and $5 for a plate of barbecue at a post-ride party in Creston.

• Foster families welcome tears and joys

  Foster families welcome tears and joys

  Many children awake this Christmas morning to the thrill of presents under the tree and a memorable day with loving parents. But for foster children, who for their safety have been removed from their parents by the Department of Social Services, Christmas can be an unspeakably difficult time.

  In the spirit of giving, some foster families provide more than just a clean bed and regular meals to the traumatized youth who land in their homes. They also give warmth, emotional support, and advocacy — all year long.

  Here are profiles of two such foster families.

• Letters to the Editor 1/6

  Letters to the Editor 1/6

  Simply buy the peak

  There is a simple solution for those who would determine how Cerrito Peak should be developed: Buy it!

  For those who think Mr. Reddell should be able, within reasonable limits, to develop his own property: Today it may be Mr. Reddell’s problem, but please be aware that tomorrow it may be your property that others want to control.