Here at the Elmira Independent Weekender, we are reminded annually of how generous our readers can be.

Once again, this week, we saw that generosity, as hundreds of Elmira and area residents brought in shoeboxes, part of the charitable efforts of Samaritan’s Purse, through its annual Operation Christmas Child program.

The program provides Christmas gifts to children in developing nations, gifts they might not otherwise receive.

It is gratifying to see the community come behind this project, and especially to see the youngest members of our society delight in bringing joy to children, halfway around the world.

Yet we know that the generosity of this community is only beginning.

This past weekend, homeowners generously gave to the annual Kiwanis Food Drive, in support of the Christmas Goodwill Program.

And individuals, families, employees and churches will be supporting those who benefit from the Goodwill Program, by donating Christmas presents, money, and gifts of food at this special time of year.

If you watch television commercials these days, you might be excused for thinking that Christmas is all about getting.In reality, it is all about giving, something everyone in Elmira seems to grasp really well.

It is this generous spirit that makes Woolwich Township such a wonderful place to live, 365 days a year.

May the spirit of giving that we all experienced this week continue well into 2010, and the years to come.