I’ve waited until the new year to send this letter about all the solicitations we received last year requesting donations to various charities, and which have continued in the new year.

I’ve lived on Oahu for more than 43 years, and never have we received as many requests as we did last year. Many of the organizations we’re familiar with; some we’ve never heard of. We’ve received address labels, calendars, note pads, all-occasion cards and promises of other gifts such as teddy bears, blankets and tote bags if we donate a specific amount.

My husband and I give to five local and two mainland charities on a regular basis. After sending a donation, we receive an acknowledgement and a request for another donation, which we expect. We realize that nonprofits need funding year-round and not just on the holidays, but it’s impossible to donate to all. I doubt that we’re the only people on Oahu experiencing this.

Maureen De Costa

Pearl City

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