More lakes area families need help this winter

PINE RIVER — Winter is approaching on Barclay Avenue, and at the Pine River-Backus Family Center, we are preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas and the colder months ahead. But this year we are facing a difficult reality. More local families are turning to us for help, while the financial donations that support our programs have declined. We have seen a 50% increase in households seeking assistance this year. At the same time, financial donations from our community have decreased. Simply put, we are serving significantly more families with fewer financial resources. As we head into one of our busiest seasons, we need our community's help. We are incredibly grateful for the individuals, businesses, churches and organizations that continue to support the family center. Their generosity makes our work possible, and we do not take that support for granted. Right now, our two immediate priorities are the Pine River Area Food Shelf and our annual Christmas for Kids program.

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