Thanksgiving Charities 2009

Dear Listener:

We all know someone who has lost their job. We are all feeling the crunch of the recession.

While trying, these times can also be remarkably inspiring. We remember what matters most. We give thanks for our own good fortune. We find new ways to share with those who never thought they would have to stand in line at an unemployment office or sacrifice meals to pay bills.

Every one of us at KGO Newstalk 810 feels that spirit of giving and sense of community like never before as we begin KGO's 21st Annual Thanksgiving Charities Drive. We are proud to once again help benefit the St. Vincent De Paul Free Dining Facility in Oakland, St. Anthony Foundation in San Francisco, Sacred Heart Community Services in San Jose, and Fresh Start in Walnut Creek. These organizations go beyond food and shelter. They provide medical care, counseling, and employment services. I wish you could be with me when I visit these agencies. At St. Vincent De Paul a top chef trains people to work in the culinary field. I have watched the transition as people who were once served meals when they were in need now serve others at fine restaurants. St. Anthony's gives people computer training so they can find jobs online and then use their skills to do those jobs and turn their lives around. All these agencies make sure that families in need of a good meal get one.

As always, every cent of your donation goes to those who need it with absolutely no red tape or administrative fees. No amount is too small. Even a single dollar can help. And because we know it might not be easy to give from your wallet, you can also give your time by helping these neighborhood cornerstones. Things will get better. We will weather this storm like so many others: together. And we will give thanks for our family, friends, and neighbors, knowing that they will be there when we need them.

Gil Gross

KGO Newsalk 810

100 percent of the funds raised go to Sacred Heart Community Service of San Jose, St. Anthony Foundation in San Francisco, St. Vincent DePaul in Alameda County, and Fresh Start of Walnut Creek.