By Jolene Farley
The holiday season, a time to share with those less fortunate, is drawing near.
In Rock County, SHARE, Sharing Hearts Are Reaching Everyone, is working to provide a link between the generous and the needy.
Last year, SHARE provided 141 families (161 adults and 189 children) with groceries, clothing and toys. An undetermined number of people obtained goods from the tables of items set aside for last-minute requests.
Volunteering for SHARE is a rewarding experience, according to those who help with the program. Many volunteers collect goods, while others help sort and distribute the donated goods.
One of the many organizations that helps collect donations for SHARE is the Luverne Lions Club. Club member Oscar Helle, Luverne, collected food for the program outside LuverneÕs grocery stores last year.
He said it was rewarding "just to help people ... people who have need ... some of those less fortunate."
Eldon Gradert, Luverne, has helped for the last three years. He said many shoppers buy extra groceries and throw them in the basket for SHARE. "You are always happy to get what you get," he said.
Luverne resident Alyce McClure, a Retired Senior Volunteer Program member, sorted clothing donations for SHARE last year and is eager to help again this year. "I enjoy doing things for other people," she said. "It's interesting to see all the things they (SHARE) get."
Recipients of the donations remain anonymous to the volunteers, according to McClure. Most of the volunteers know only the age of the family members, the sizes they wear, and whether they are male or female. She stressed the fact there are no income guidelines for SHARE recipients.
Organizers hope to make this another successful year for SHARE. Many individuals, churches, organizations and businesses in Rock County help SHARE further its cause through their donations.
Items needed for SHARE are unwrapped new or used clothing (seasonal only), toys and household items. Cash donations are also accepted.
Donations may be dropped off at the Luverne Armory from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, and from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8.
Cash donations may be mailed to SHARE, PO Box 792, Luverne, MN 56156.
This year's distribution of collected goods will be from noon to 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 10, at the Luverne Armory.