Recent Stories Should Be Inspiration For All Of Us

THIS WEEKEND’S editions of The Times Leader were sprinkled with uplifting stories.
Consider, for instance, Saturday’s article about the thoughtful person who donated 150 place-settings to the St. Vincent de Paul Kitchen in Wilkes-Barre. The dishes and utensils had been purchased for a private party but were not needed afterward.
The items could have been sold at a garage sale. Instead, people who eat Thanksgiving dinner at the charity kitchen will use silverware and china plates, instead of institutional-style trays.
The program’s director says it will make the dining experience more like a restaurant and appropriate for a holiday.
In Sugar Notch on Sunday, as plump snowflakes floated down, candy, toys and gift certificates were distributed to more than 100 children.
Mayor Bill Davis, police Chief Chris Pelchar and J.R. Towing owner Randy Gyle paid for the goodies, which were handed out during the borough’s Santa Parade.
Let these people’s actions recharge your giving spirit during this week of counting blessings.
Better yet, share in their spirit and do your own good deed.
There’s plenty of need. Open your heart and let it guide you to where you can help.

YOU CAN HELP, TOO

St. Vincent de Paul Kitchen needs pumpkin pies for its free Thanksgiving dinner. Drop off baked goods at 39 E. Jackson St. in Wilkes-Barre or call 829-7796.

American Red Cross officials urged people who attended the Sugar Notch Santa Parade to donate blood, saying that the supply is low. To make an appointment, call 1-800-432-8045 or go to www.givelife.org.

Find other volunteer opportunities at the United Way of Wyoming Valley’s Web site: www.unitedwaywb.org.