Manassas Journal Messenger | Residents are opening their hearts to the Christmas Basket

The Salvation Army Christmas Basket fund grew by $1,450 Thursday. This brings the total thus far to $9,315.

The basket is jointly sponsored by the Potomac News, the Manassas Journal Messenger and benefits the Prince William Salvation Army.

Virginia L. Cox of Dumfries donated $100 in memory of her husband, Sam Cox.

Kilroy’s Restaurant in Woodbridge donated its daily $100 and continues to challenge other businesses or residents to match that daily amount.

J. Edward Flournoy and Mary D. Flournoy of Manassas contributed $500 to the basket.

Jeffrey A. and Linda J. Witherel of Woodbridge donated $100 in honor of members of the U.S. military.

T. R. and D. T. Hagmaier of Woodbridge donated $100. The notation on the check reads: “In the name of our Lord.”

The Computer Doctor in Lake Ridge donated $100 and attached the following: “The Christmas Basket provides a wonderful opportunity to give something back to the community, especially during the holidays.”

Cokesbury United Methodist Church in Woodbridge donated $100.

Robert H. and Frances G. Tyrrel donated $100.

Dawn H. and Gregory W. Smith Sr. of Bristow donated $100.

The Woodbridge Woman’s Club donated $50.

A Woodbridge couple donated $75 anonymously.

Silvio and Lorraine Chiudioni of Woodbridge donated $25.

The 2004 goal is $45,000. Last year, the drive raised $41,619 between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.

The Salvation Army helps residents with utility and other bills year-round and provides toys and food to needy residents during the Christmas season.

The funds are distributed based on a system of guidelines set up by the organization’s national headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Donations can be brought to the Manassas Journal Messenger office, located at 9009 Church St. in Old Town Manassas, or to the Potomac News office at 14010 Smoketown Road in Woodbridge. Checks should be made out to the Salvation Army.

They can also be delivered to the Salvation Army at 17688 Possum Point Road in Dumfries.

Any contributions by mail can be sent to PO Box 431, Manassas, VA 20108-0431.

Donations may come from individuals, groups or anonymous donors. Donors contributing in memory of friends or family are encouraged to write a brief message. Others may also include a message.