Tomorrow is Black Friday, which means that people are flooding shops and stores looking for the perfect gift — or at least a good bargain. That’s well and good. Merchants need the business and the day means their bottom line turns from red to black.

But there is so much more to the holiday season than things in pretty boxes and fancy bows. More than anything, it should be a time of help and hope.

Earlier this week, the Reporter staff from all of its departments helped prepare boxes of food and supplies so hundreds of  families would be able to enjoy a bountiful Thanksgiving meal with their loved ones. My effort came with the title “Kitchen Help.” Pretty unglamorous, but then glamor isn’t what’s needed. What counts is a willingness to help.

Fortunately in our area, there are many organizations, made up of caring individuals, who each day extend a helping hand to those in need. Look around and you’ll find organizations preparing and serving daily meals, food and clothing banks keeping shelves filled with daily necessities, stepping in to pay utility bills or even rent when an emergency strikes a family and they simply run out of money. The goal is a simple one: help individuals get back on their feet, keep families together and give everyone a chance to have a better life.

For all the good that these groups do, they still need your help. A financial donation is always welcome, but so is your time. Look around. The need is everywhere. With just a little effort, you, too, can offer help and hope.