Right now, our neighboring community is mourning the loss of 15 year old Phoebe Prince, a South Hadley High School freshman who took her own life on January 14th, 2010. Phoebe had recently moved to Massachusetts from Ireland. On the surface, it seemed she had everything going for her...she was pretty, smart, making friends, and finding her way in a new town. However, beneath the cheerful exterior and gentle demeanor, were serious issues in need of and demanding attention. Growing up is difficult, even in the best of circumstances... never mind being the new kid... or being different... being too pretty or not pretty enough... being too fat... too thin... the list is endless. For some, the pressure to fit into this invisible, predefined, social realm of popularity is overbearing and overwhelming. For Phoebe Prince, and many others, these same pressures can contribute to a mental breakdown of self confidence and self worth leading them to believe that the only way out is death. 

As the cost of living rises, sadly, many seniors are forced to make unfair choices between many of life's neccesities such as food, shelter, or proper medications. New England needs your helping in reaching out to the seniors in your communities to see that they do not go without and are being provided with the proper nutrition they deserve. Meals on Wheels helps make this possible. Read on to see how you can volunteer, donate, and help.

Believe it or not Christmas is fast approaching and the annual Marine Toys for Tot program is well under way. Help the less fortunate children in your New England communities experience the magic and warmth of giving and recieving through your particpation and donations.