As Halloween fades farther into the rearview mirror and the year makes the final turn into the home stretch, many of us stop and take the opportunity to take stock of our lives.

This month, especially, when we take a full day to look back and give thanks for all of the things we have, many of us also think of those who don’t have as much as we do.

With temperatures dropping and the rains moving in, the need at local shelters and food banks also increases and in the spirit of giving, many fine groups and organizations around the city begin their annual charity drives, collecting food, toys and coats and such for those among us who may be in need this season.

Here at the Renton Reporter we, too, are looking to get involved and give a little back to the community we love.

But at the same time, we don’t want to cut into the fine work that other groups do, or get in their way for that matter.

This year, we’re partnering with Art2D2 Tattoo and Piercing in Renton to collect toiletries for RAYS, Renton Area Youth and Family Services, a group that provides mental-health counseling to students in the  Renton and Tukwila school districts.

Art2D2’s shop at 430 Sunset Blvd. N.E. will be the main drop point for donations, though there will also be a box at our office at 19426 68th Ave. S. in Kent.

Our hope is that when you are grabbing that extra can of food or searching your closet for an old coat, you also take a moment to grab a tube of toothpaste or a bottle of shampoo and some soap, things that many of us simply take for granted until we find ourselves without them.

And RAYS is an excellent local organization with whom we are proud to partner.

Founded in 1970 and located in Renton, RAYS is referred students from the Renton and Tukwila school districts who have experienced trauma or abuse and then provide ongoing treatment.

Most of the kids they work with are low-income and their sessions are paid for by Medicare.

The group serves about 1,000 children from right here in our area each year.

This winter, they are also collecting the following items: shampoo, soap, deodorant, lotion, toothpaste, feminine products, toilet paper, laundry detergent and reusable bags.

Grocery store gift cards in $10 and $20 amounts are also requested.

Rays Director of Development and Community Relations Jolene Bernhard said a toiletry drive was necessary because often they are items those in need sacrifice in favor of other necessities.

“Why is a toiletry drive important?” she asked. “I keep thinking of a single mom who has been coming to RAYS for the past few years. The family has clawed its way back to stability after the recession – mom now has a job after a long search and they have a steady roof over their heads.

“But after paying for rent and food, there’s no money left for the essentials, the toiletries that keep you employable and feeling like a human being,” she continued. “That’s why soap makes a difference.”

“I thought that collecting toiletries was a great idea, as you can’t purchase toiletries with food stamps,” said Renton Reporter Publisher Ellen Morrison. “There’s places to go for food, clothing and health but nothing for a bar of soap or some toilet paper.”

Morrison said she planned to donate toothbrushes received during regular dentist check-ups and suggested donating the small (unused) shampoo or conditioners brought home from a hotel.

“Those of you who have these small items, that are taking up valuable space in the bathroom drawer, can be assured they are going to someone who appreciates them,” she said.

We know there are a lot of folks asking for your help this holiday season, but we hope you will include the fine people at RAYS in your giving and pick up a few extra of the items above while you are at the store.

The extra couple of bucks on a box of toothpaste may not mean all that much to some of us, but to others, it could mean a world of difference.

Together, Renton, we can make this a happy and healthy holiday season for all the members of our community.

To comment on this story view it online at www.rentonreporter.com. Reach Editor Brian Beckley at 425-255-3484, ext. 5050.