[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/UnitedWay_logo.jpg” caption=”Donations to McMaster’s United Way campaign are still being accepted.”]If you or someone you know has ever fallen on hard times, this message will resonate very clearly. At any time of year, financial hardship is difficult. The holiday season just exacerbates the situation for those in financial need.

Perhaps you know “Dave,” who, because of a few bad financial decisions, can't pay his monthly bills and is at risk of losing his home. Or “Sue,” who constantly worries about the upcoming holidays — not about buying gifts for her three children, but about providing a decent meal for her family.

The holidays bring joy and happiness to so many people living in the Hamilton-Burlington area. It is a time to visit with family and friends, enjoy home-baked goodies and experience the magic of the season. Traditions such as gathering with family and friends, enjoying holiday cultural events and annual shopping trips are things that many families enjoy.

The holiday season can be an extremely happy and carefree time. However, the stress of getting all the shopping done, presents wrapped, meals prepared and events attended can make the month of December very hectic. But at least when the special day arrives, you can sit back and enjoy the fact that the presents are being enjoyed, and you have a carefully planned meal to look forward to at the end of the day.

Can you imagine the stress of the holiday season for someone whose only concern is feeding, sheltering or clothing their family? Their worries do not include, “Will I be able to get that Xbox system before they all sell out?” but “Will we be eating at the shelter over the holidays, or will we have enough money to enjoy a decent meal in our own home?”

Wesley Urban Ministries, just one of many United Way local agencies, has been a key contributor to the Hamilton community since it opened its doors in 1955. Wesley operates over a dozen programs from six locations in Hamilton in the following areas: shelter, homelessness and emergency services; child, youth and family programs; and employment, education, health and housing services.

Services like these are an integral part of providing disadvantaged members of our community the opportunity to live independent, fulfilling lives.

This year, consider giving the gift of hope. Donations are welcomed by one-time payment or payroll recovery. Support McMaster's United Way campaign and ease the despair of someone in your community.

Together we can find a way.