“The holidays are a special time of year when we come together with our closest family and friends to exchange gifts and reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the past 12 months. It is a treasured time of relaxation amidst the culmination of previous weeks of shopping, planning and organization. We exchange gifts and break bread with those we care about, enjoy a family day sledding or building snowmen and nuzzle up with a glass of eggnog to enjoy that long-awaited Christmas movie.

“The New Year gives us an opportunity to forget the shortcomings of the previous year and focus our efforts on new goals, opportunities and challenges. For me, it means a new year in Albany and a renewed focus on improving the lives of my neighbors through my work in the Legislature. Whatever the holidays mean for you, remember to relax and enjoy this special time. And from my family to yours, happy holidays!

“Remember that not every family is fortunate enough to enjoy gifts or a warm meal during this time of year, so please consider donating or volunteering at one of the tremendous organizations we have here in our community. I know we are a compassionate and selfless community and your efforts will go a long way toward helping others this month.”

Easter Seals-88 East Main Street,-Port Jervis-Call 845-858-2874

Drew United Methodist Church-49-51 Sussex Street-Port Jervis-(845) 856-3423

Salvation Army-Port Jervis Corps-99 Ball Street-Port Jervis-(845)-856-3214

Local Toys for Tots-Orange County: (845) 307-0203-Rockland County: (845) 406-2465 or visit the Toys for Tots web site.

Greenwood Lake Food Pantry-41 Windamere Avenue-Greenwood Lake-Open Saturdays 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

First Assembly of God Food Pantry-13 Route 6-Port Jervis-(845)-856-1826

Monroe Food Pantry-47 Maple Avenue East-Monroe-(845)-783-6371

Florida Community Food Pantry-1 North Main Street-Florida-(845)-544-3566

Sloatsburg Food Pantry-93 Orange Turnpike-Sloatsburg-(914) 393-3160

Open Dec. 5 and 19