The 37th annual Christmas Feeling Fund has started its appeal, with a goal of raising $25,000.
Money raised will allow the committee to purchase food, clothing, toys and candy for the needy, presenters said.
Last year $24,845 was raised, and 232 families were helped with the donations the committee received from service clubs, churches, corporations, banks and individuals. There were more than 350 contributors.
The Fund helps the families in Stamford, Hobart, Grand Gorge, Jefferson, Gilboa, South Kortright, Bloomville, Harpersfield and Summit.
Last year, the fund provided turkeys and other food products for Thanksgiving and new jackets, hats, scarves, gloves, toys, sweaters, teddy bears and miscellaneous items for Christmas.
This year officials say they expect 250 families to come to receive their packages.
As in the past, the distribution will be at the First Presbyterian Church in Stamford on Dec. 20.
