OPINION

Dear editor,
Once again another year has past, and The Helping Hands Network has had to carry a heavier load.
We increased by 23 percent the families needing help, but when we called out for help, the response was overwhelming. All of the Sandy Valley area churches opened up their hearts and gave. Both food and money were given. We have had many private individuals who have given to us over the years, even though they are in retirement or nursing homes. A big thank you goes out to all of you.
The crew of volunteers that unload our truck each month makes it look so easy. Both men and women work hard, along with a lot of laughter. Don and Mary George supply bread every week. Hugs to all of you.
Our building, just like our homes, always needs something repaired. We have been blessed by the companies and individuals who step up and repair whatever is needed done, with no questions asked. They are B&P Electric, Bill Colton, Wendell Ford, Ed Sanders, Andrew Irwin, Ted Cobbs, Pete Salom, Jeff Snyder, Sonny Fitzsimmons, Chuck Cain and son, Elizabeth Manson, Cathey and Chuck Adkins, Bob Baum, Shelly Snyder and Bruce Beck. Thanks to all of you.
For me, the past year was long, but time is short. I would like to thank our director, Cheryl Eibel, for putting up with me. To Betty Wilson, our food coordinator, and her volunteers— thanks for all you do. All of you are truly our silent angels.
To Shelly Snyder— you are the hardest worker I have ever seen. Bless and thank you.
A big thank you to our trustees— Harold Farber (treasurer) and Glen Johnstone (secretary) for guiding me through the year.  Last but not least, thanks to our vice president Cathey Adkins, whose shoulder I would lean on when things got tough. She would always pick up the pieces.
If I have missed anyone I truly apologize. I am proud to say I live in Sandy Valley, where people respond to the needs of others.
I will close by saying “Do I believe in God? Yes, I do! I see Him every day in the faces of those who give of their bounty, and I see Him in the faces of those in need.”
May all of you have a happy, healthy and blessed new year.
Sincerely,
Ramon Halter
Board President
Helping Hands Network