With so many bleak stories in the news these days, it is good to be reminded of what can be accomplished through simple generosity and by providing a helping hand to those who need it the most.

Over 600 residents are currently listed as homeless in Chester County and over 6 percent of the population is living in poverty, with even more struggling to make ends meet. The biggest issue is the average price of rent that requires either an hourly wage of $21.06, or for a person earning $8 an hour to work a nearly impossible 88 hours per week just to be able to afford a place to live. When all other costs are added in, a single parent with a small child needs a minimum annual income of $51,853 just to be able to provide for their family of two.

This is why it is so important and heartwarming to see how many people in the county were ready to reach out and provide a helping hand to people in need during this holiday season, states an opinion piece from the Kennett Paper published by Daily Local News.

As part of the Angel Tree program, members of the local YMCA’s “adopted” families program, which helps economically disadvantaged families by making their holidays brighter, bought clothes and toys. Also, thanks to the donations made during the Kennett Food Cupboard’s 62nd annual Christmas Basket event, there is a pantry full of food in homes of 561 families, as well as an assortment of warm coats and toys for children.

That event was helped by volunteers from local schools, organizations, and churches, while many large local businesses such as Genesis and Exelon sent volunteers to help out. Smaller businesses from the county also joined in, as well as individuals from many other parts of the community.

The spirit of giving was strong, and there is hope that this will continue throughout this year, spreading joy to those who need it the most.