In 11 days, many families will rejoice on Christmas morning, the day that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem. Dec. 25 is a day of peace and hope for all mankind. It is also a day, above all others, that we share our blessings with one another.

Many of our friends and neighbors struggle to make that a reality as unemployment and financial hardship have made it difficult, if not impossible, for some. Through no fault of their own, it is the children who suffer most.

That is where The Salvation Army has come to the rescue. Through its Christmas Cheer campaign, many families have been able to reach out for help during the yuletide season. It is up to us to answer their pleas for assistance.

Since Dec. 7, the Washington Daily News has published Christmas Cheer cases on its front pages. These are brief descriptions of the hardships facing some local families. These parents and grandparents do not ask for themselves, but for the children in their care.

Today is the last day to offer assistance to a family in need. Please take a moment to read about these families and then share the Christmas spirit by making a donation to The Salvation Army.

Winston Churchill once said, “You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.”

’Tis the season to make a life for yourself and others.