As the Christmas season hits its stride, families in Albert Lea and Freeborn County may find themselves in need of services provided by the 18 partner agencies of the United Way.

It is so important to give to the United Way, which funds such programs as those offered by the Salvation Army, the Red Cross, Crisis Nursery, Circle of Parents, Scouting programs for boys and girls, the YMCA and so many others.

Residents can be assured the money allocated to these agencies is well-spent by the charities which help those in need, as well as monitored by the United Way board of directors.

The United Way has an ambitious goal &045; $205,000 this year &045; because there is a need in the

county. Those who set the goal don’t pull the figure out of their collective hat &045; the agencies which request funds base it on numbers of people served in the past year, as well as project the number it might serve in the coming year.

It should come as no surprise that each year there seems to be some catastrophe which stretches our pocketbooks. In 1981, declining employment and an economic recession created spending caution among residents.

This year, people have given generously to victims of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. We applaud this outpouring of money for strangers, but ask that you not forget the needs of countless families right here in our own backyard.

One tornado, one flood, one disaster in Freeborn County or Albert Lea could send thousands of people to the agencies funded in part by the United Way. Please check your personal finances, dig a little deeper and ensure that when the time comes, local charities can help those who need help.