HUGHESVILLE -- You'll usually hear them before you see them: bell ringers. They're the people standing outside in the cold collecting donations for the holiday season.
"I like meeting and greeting people. It’s good. I like it," said Barry Rupert.
If you've been to TJ's Market in Hughesville this week, you've probably passed by Barry Rupert and a red chimney. Barry is collecting donations for the American Rescue Workers in Williamsport. It’s a non-profit that helps families and gives others including Barry a place to stay.
"He walked up with a big bag of coins and dumped them in here and after that, he dropped a $20 bill in. He was an ex-resident. I guess it was his way of giving back," said Ruppert.
Last year, the American Rescue Workers raised about $30,000. That money goes toward a community Thanksgiving and Christmas meal and Christmas baskets.
Robin Villa and Mandii Lewis picked up bags of food from the American Rescue Workers Social Service Center. They also plan to sign up for Christmas baskets.
"You have to have your social security card a photo ID and you get the whole works for a Christmas holiday meal," said Robin Villa.
The non-profit expects to give out at least 1,000 baskets this year. So far, only about 200 people have signed up at the service center. The deadline is December 2.
"Just imagine the little children and little families out there that couldn't even sit and have a meal this is a true blessing,” said Villa.
So next time you hear that bell, remember there's a place to get help this holiday season.