To the editor:

Community Action, Inc. has been heartened by the tremendous outpouring of children's gifts and contributions from local business owners and families this holiday season and would like to extend our deepest thanks. This has been a particularly difficult year for many families and it is gratifying to see such spirit.

We particularly wish to express our appreciation to Haverhill Gazette's staff and readership for their great effort with this year's Gazette Fund drive — these funds were quickly distributed to Haverhill residents who needed a helping hand with gifts and necessities. Other local businesses held toy drives to support our Haverhill Family Network and many more individuals provided cash donations to our Amesbury-based food pantry and heating assistance program that serves residents of Greater Newburyport.

-We would like to recognize AAA Merrimack Valley; Curves of Groveland; Sovereign Bank of Haverhill; Mediterranean Pizza and Sub of Haverhill; Sacred Heart Parish in Bradford; the First Presbyterian Church; Shaw's of Plaistow and all of our generous donors for their support. Special thanks also to the 2008 Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids Program.

Our programs empower individuals, families and communities to overcome poverty and meet basic human needs. We offer hope and assistance with respect and understanding.

Community Action, Inc. wishes everyone a healthy and prosperous New Year and we look forward to helping those who require our assistance throughout these challenging times.

John Cuneo, executive director

Community Action, Inc.