As we go about our holiday preparations and celebrate with family and friends, please take time out to consider those who are without the support systems that many of us take for granted. Consider those who live out on the streets, cold and without shelter in the worst of Vermont’s winter. Homeless shelters are at critical mass; food shelf programs are stretched; more Americans than ever are on food stamps; the food line at the Salvation Army extends around the block. On my way to work earlier this week with the thermostat hovering around 20 degrees, I witnessed a homeless person huddled and trying to sleep in the doorway of a vacant office building.

Vermont has always prided itself on the depth of its private sector philanthropy. We have stood tall even in the toughest of economic times ensuring that the most needy had basic services to survive. It is more important now to give than ever before.

I forgot who said it, but to paraphrase: "A society is measured by how well it takes care of its most needy." So, during this season of giving, let’s prove once again that the Lake Champlain Region will be judged well by those that come after us. For if we do, our holidays will be most certainly joyous.