Help Wanted

    While this area’s needy food pantries draw a large measure of the public’s attention and contributions, there are also any number of other outreach efforts that are worth acknowledging. And there are those that could stand a lot more notice — and charity.

    Some groups’ needs are astonishingly modest, and a dollar can go far. For example, the Springs Library, which used to get $2,000 annually from the Town of East Hampton, saw that cut in recent years. At the other end of the spectrum, in East Hampton, the Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center must raise about $350,000 each year to provide its services. There are many more. Sag Harbor’s Fighting Chance helps those with cancer. Maureen’s Haven provides shelter and clothing to those without homes. The Retreat helps care for the victims of domestic violence and their families. The list goes on.

    Yet money is not the greatest need for some groups; many need help in the form of volunteers, such as the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and this area’s fire and ambulance departments.

    This is as good a time of year as any to think about others — and do what you can to help.