The world can seem like a hopeless place to a family whose breadwinners have been letgo from their jobs, especially around the Christmas holidays. Already struggling to make ends meet, Andrew and Megan (not their actual names) were out of work. As the bills began to pile up and Christmas inched closer, the future looked grim.

Recognizing that this family was in dire straits and practicing the principle of the Golden Rule, PSNR granted the family money for food and other necessities — and maybe even a few Christmas gifts for their children. A few days later a PSNR “elf” delivered a $300 Walmart gift certificate to a very grateful Megan and Andrew. Thinking the book was closed on this chapter, the elf reported a happy ending.

But the story didn’t end there. Within a week of receiving the gift certificate, Megan returned it to the elf. Her job had been reinstated with back pay. Able to pay the bills and get caught up, Megan explained to the elf that her luck had improved. And that another family could probably use the $300 now that she was back to work. The Golden Rule — treating others as you would be treated — had come full circle.

Unfortunately, not all recipients of PSNR enjoy happy endings to their stories. Often the job isn’t reinstated in the nick of time. Or resources are inadequate during the process of rebuilding lives after a fire, accident or other catastrophe. For these reasons and more, PSNR seeks your assistance to reach out to the children and adults who need a hand in Northeast Ohio Counties.

2008 Annual Fundraisers

PSNR Dinner/Auction on Saturday, Nov. 15 from 6:00pm to 10:00pm at St. George Fellowship Hall, 3204 Ridgewood Rd.

TABLE SPONSORSHIPS

GOLD $500: 1 table of 8 people and recognition in the program

FRANKINCENSE $250: 4 tickets and recognition in the program

MYRRH $100: 2 tickets and recognition in the program

Christmas for Kids Auction on Friday, Dec. 5, beginning at 9:00pm at Frank's Place on Market St.

Polar Bear Swim on Saturday, Dec. 6 (actual St. Nicholas Day!), at 1:00pm at Dano's Lakeside Pub on South Main St.