This past year has been challenging for many families coast-to-coast. And just as the need for charitable giving has grown, donations have decreased in the down economy. To help encourage people to spread goodwill and support in their communities, Stove Top Stuffing is calling for America’s help in selecting three “Good Samaritans” with the best charitable ideas to each receive a $10,000 grant to the non-profit organization of their choice.  

Earlier this year, Stove Top Spread the Warmth Ambassadors encouraged people to share ideas about the good deeds they would like to do in their community. Now, Stove Top is asking for America’s help in making three grand prize winners’ ideas a reality. Now through April 4, 2010, visit SpreadtheWarmth.com to review finalists’ essays and cast a vote for the top charitable idea. The top three entries to receive the most votes will each win a $10,000 grant to the charity of their choice, subject to Stove Top approval.

Since November, Stove Top Spread the Warmth Ambassadors have been spreading the warmth to residents in select cities nationwide with activities that have included paying residents’ heating bills, delivering holiday meals, shoveling snow and hosting charity fundraisers. Across the country, people joined the cause locally by helping neighbors, friends and strangers in need – proving that small acts of kindness can make a big impact.

To get ideas on how to help in your community, follow the Stove Top Spread the Warmth initiative on Twitter at @SpreadtheWarmth or become a fan of Stove Top Stuffing on Facebook, at Facebook.com/StoveTop.

Tips for Getting Involved in Your Community

• Flex your muscles: Help an elderly neighbor with an errand or some yardwork that may otherwise be difficult for them
• Warm up your fellow neighbor: Surprise your mail carrier with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate
• Get the family involved: Gather a group of family and friends to participate in a charity race
• Beautify the outdoors: Take a walk through a neighborhood park and pick up litter
• Donate your time: Schedule time at a local library to read to children

About the photo: With the help of Milwaukee residents, Stove Top Spread the Warmth Ambassadors hosted a charity coat drive earlier this year. Through the event, Milwaukeeans donated more than 500 coats and Stove Top donated $2,500 to a local charity. Now through April 4, help others spread the warmth by voting on your favorite Spread the Warmth contest finalist at SpreadtheWarmth.com.

Provided by Family Features