In our November 10 issue of Hot News, we encouraged people to support those transitioning from homelessness back into stable housing by donating household items to the Portland-based non-profit organization Community Warehouse. The response has been amazing! Community Warehouse staff member Rena wrote the following in an e-mail on November 20: "The quality of goods [donated] was excellent, and you helped us fill our shelves with quite a few of our most-needed items. Will you pass along our thanks and high fives to your team?  We have 8 families scheduled today and 11 tomorrow, so your goods will be very helpful in getting them everything they need." Thank you to all who participated!

The Salvation Army invites you to be a part of their iconic holiday fundraising campaign by signing up as a "Ring the Bell" Red Kettle campaign volunteer. Gather a few of your friends and start the season off with what could become an annual tradition. Wear festive hats, sing carols and spread cheer while helping needy families in our community. Visit Salvation Army's website, enter your zip code and choose a site close to where you work or live to begin the volunteer registration process. If you have questions, please call Candus Dalesky at 503-640-4311.

The City of Hillsboro is hosting its annual Holly Days celebration on Saturday, November 29, from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. at the Civic Center Plaza in historic downtown Hillsboro. The event kicks off with a winter market featuring artists, crafts, local food and drinks, and fresh winter produce. From 2 p.m. - 4 p.m., kids can visit with Santa and enjoy arts and crafts. While you're waiting for the tree lighting at 5:30 p.m., grab a cup of cocoa and visit downtown merchants who are ready to help with your holiday shopping needs. Click here for more information on the Holly Days website.