Again this year, the generosity of the citizens of Mobile is overwhelming. Our supporters were out in force sharing what they have with our guests; most of whom have nothing. Everyone from middle school students to Satsuma growers and restaurant owners brought food, gifts and hygiene packs for us to make bountious Christmas packages. Special volunteers made Christmas Eve dinner of "Gumbo Ya Ya"; a local doctor brought his family to serve ice cream sundaes for dessert, and countless people dropped by with blankets, socks and gloves. We are truly blessed in this community to have people who understand and care about the plight of the homeless, because we do have homeless people even in this beautiful city.

We also have panhandlers as many of you will attest. I know for a fact that the majority of these people are NOT homeless, rather they have a limited income and an unlimited addiction. If you want to help please resolve this New Year, NOT to give to panhandlers. Some panhandlers will use any money you give them to buy alcohol or drugs. This is not the way to help someone no matter how pitiful their story. Instead give what you wish to the organizations that help the truly homeless. In that way you are helping end the problem rather than helping sustain addiction.