Children and teens are invited to write a brief "Helping Hands" letter or e-mail a note about someone in their community who could use a financial boost during the winter holidays. Writers age 18 and under are asked to explain what they would do if they had $200 to help.

Helping Hands coordinators will choose 10 letters and help carry out the writers' plans to aid a classmate, friend, neighbor or other community member. Selected letters will be published in the Wisconsin State Journal in December, edited to avoid identifying recipients.

Entries are due Nov. 27 to helpinghands@madison.com (receipt will be acknowledged), or Helping Hands, Wisconsin State Journal, P.O. Box 8058, Madison, WI 53708. Whenever possible, please include the name and city of the person or family described. Also include your name, age, grade and school, home address and phone numbers in case we have questions. Families, classes or other groups participating are welcome to submit entries in a single e-mail or envelope.

For information, contact Sandy Kallio by e-mail at helpinghands@madison.com or call 712-9868. The Helping Hands program is supported by the State Journal's Empty Stocking Club charity.