Happy holidays, John.

Like a lot of folks, I take some time during this season not only to enjoy time with family and friends, but to think on holidays past, count my blessings, and to serve others.

My Christmas photo album is longer than I care to admit at this point, but more than that, it's so varied. So much has happened in the time that the wide-eyed Christmas-morning cowboy in the front of the photo on the left turned into the happenin', with-it, hip grandpa on the right.

How often do you hear "grandpa" and "hip" in the same sentence without "broke a" in the middle somewhere? Not often, I bet.

One thing that never changed, though, was that I was always fortunate enough to have my family nearby, a roof overhead, and food on the table. My parents saw to that, and more than once over the years, I remember our community coming together to support a neighbor in need.

But not everyone has the privilege of family, food, and community, John. And while we must share our good fortune year round, it's absolutely imperative we step up during the holiday season. Will you join us in supporting a local food bank to make sure that other Washington families can get through this winter?

When my boys were little, Paula and I wanted nothing more than to give them the holiday season they deserved. They could hardly contain their excitement for Christmas. Their December revolved around seeing family and sharing a meal with loved ones. I am forever grateful that they didn't worry about going hungry or cold.

But for Washington families facing hard times, the magic of the holidays are tinged with stress. Folks are working two or three jobs to keep food on the table, make rent, and keep the family safe while wondering how they're going to do it all.

That's not right, John. I am working hard in Olympia to make sure we provide opportunities for these hard working families, but legislation takes time and public policy doesn't change overnight.

So, this holiday season I am asking you to join Paula and me in donating to a food bank near you. You can find your local food bank here:

FIND YOUR local FOOD BANK

On the Washington state Department of Agriculture website, simply look up your county and click submit. You will see a list of your local nutrition programs and their respective websites. Many of these programs have opportunities to donate food directly or to make a monetary donation.

It may seem like a small thing, but our local food banks depend on contributions like yours. And your donation can make a world of difference for the families and children in Washington.

Thank you for joining me in supporting our community, and Happy Holidays.

Denny