By Mike Wilcox
Owner/Publisher
Every year, as the Christmas season draws near, I’m reminded just how generous our communities can be. For nearly two decades, Wilcox Newspapers has hosted what’s become one of my favorite traditions: our Annual Christmas Wish Program.
It started simply enough. We asked readers who were struggling to write in and tell us what would make their Christmas a little brighter. The idea was to connect local families in need with local people who wanted to help. Over the years, it’s grown into something truly special—and this year, we’re doing it again.
Lately, I’ve heard from more families than ever who are struggling to make ends meet. The rising cost of everyday necessities, from groceries and gas to rent and utilities, has stretched household budgets thin. It’s been a tough year for a lot of people, and many are finding themselves in need of a little extra help just to get by.
If you or your family are going through a difficult time, I encourage you to write to us and be as specific as you can. Tell us about your situation, your family, and how we might help make your holiday a little brighter. Most importantly, explain why you need our help. We prefer you email us at wilcoxnewspapers@gmail.com, but if you don’t have access to a computer, you can always mail a letter to P.O. Box 189, Allegan, MI 49010.
Over the years, I’ve been amazed at the generosity that pours in from our readers and advertisers. One afternoon, while vacuuming our new office, I noticed an envelope on the floor. Inside were ten $100 bills—no note, no name, just a quiet act of kindness from someone who wanted to help. Another time, a donor sent $2,000. Several more gave $1,000 each. For a Scrooge like me, it’s humbling to see just how deeply people here care for one another.
Last year alone, we were able to raise more than $20,000 in cash and gifts, helping over 70 families enjoy the holidays. This year, our goal is even higher. We hope to assist at least 100 families within our circulation areas.
I’ve always believed in the saying, “We take care of our own,” and nowhere is that truer than in the communities we serve. So, if you legitimately need help this Christmas, and I stress LEGITIMATELY, please reach out to us. And if you’re in a position to give, know that your generosity can change someone’s holiday, and maybe their outlook on life, for the better.
Hi, I am in need of help with the holidays. I lost everything. And became homeless. I finally got an apartment, a week ago and can’t afford much of anything after rent. I’m on Social security, and I don’t have any clothes, except a couple of outfits. They are ragged, and not good for church.I am looking for work, but I try to apply online but I only have my phone and it’s not very good. Also food and toiletries would help. (Like laundry soap, shampoo, ect). Thank you.
Hello,
My name is Raymond Muscott Jr. I am writing because I need some help for Christmas I am a Disabled man who has lost all of his family and I even lost my only child I had. My son died of covid on may 9th of 2020. I need your help because I am in need of help for my very sick dog. He is my support dog and he has heart failure and Liver failure I need to put, him to sleep and I don’t even have the money to put my sick dog to sleep My vet wants 300 dollars and after I get my social security check I don’t even have that much money left to make it through the month but trying to put my sick dog to sleep, is even harder on me mentally and physically. I have checked with the county animal control and they want 80 dollars to put him to sleep , but I want his ashes next to my son’s ashes because they were best friends and they were together all of the time except for when my son was in school. To get the ashes for my sick dog is another 160 dollars and I don’t have 240 dollars for everything So that my sick dog can rest in peace. I am sorry for asking for help, but I really need some help. I have been buying his medicine and letting other bills go because I going to my vet and asking the doctor what should I do. And all I get is lets try this medicine or this medicine and I know he is suffering and I don’t want him suffering anymore. It is breaking my heart with all of the symptoms that he is going through and not having enough money to put him to rest is killing me and I don’t think I am not going to have a Christmas this year if I have to do all of this on my own and still let some of my bills go. If there is anyone out there who is willing to help. It would make my Christmas wish for me and my sick support dog a dream come true. And let my dog rest in peace.
Thank you Raymond Muscott Jr
Hi Raymond,
You letter broke my husband’s and my hearts. We love our dogs and can’t imagine watching them suffer. Have you found some help with this situation yet? We’d like to help.
You and your baby deserve some peace.
Sincerely,
Doy DiNardo