The Daily Iberian is once again initiating its Help the Helpers campaign this December as a way for the community to contribute to Iberia Parish nonprofit organizations.

Donating to Help the Helpers allows local residents to directly assist some of the essential Teche Area nonprofits that focus on homelessness, education, food and safety.

For the next week, stories will come from The Daily Iberian each day that highlights each nonprofit that is associated with by Help the Helpers. For the first time, 10 nonprofits will be showcased, with two nonprofits taking part in Help the Helpers for the first time.

Chez Hope, a shelter for women who have experienced abuse, moved to Iberia Parish this year and will be highlighted for Help the Helpers. CASA of the 16th JDC is the other addition.

Other nonprofits include the Iberia Homeless Shelter, Disch-DeClouet Social Service Center, Angel Paws Adoption Center, Progressive Education Program, Inc. (PEPI), Shepherd’s Food Pantry, St. Francis Diner, Solomon House and St. Nicholas Social Concern.

Last year, Help the Helpers brought in $17,613, all of which were distributed to aid in the efforts of these essential organizations in the parish.

The nonprofits mentioned perform a variety of services, all of which go toward helping the needy in Iberia Parish. The Disch-DeClouet Social Service Center aids in basic services like milk and utility payments, while the Iberia Homeless Shelter helps homeless men get back on their feet. Chez Hope is filling the shoes for the former Safety Net for Abused Person by providing a safe space for survivors of domestic abuse.

St. Francis Diner and the St. Nicholas Social Concern distribute food to the needy, while PEPI allows for those who never finished high school an opportunity to finish their education.

“I love everything about the holidays; the decorations, the parties, and spending time with friends and family,” publisher for The Daily Iberian Christina Pierce said. “What I love most is that feeling of giving back.  Thanks in advance for helping those who help others in our community.  Never doubt that every bit counts!”

Contributions should be marked specifically for Help the Helpers campaign and whether it is for a certain participating organization. Help the Helpers contributions not designated for a specific organization will be divided evenly among all 10 groups.

Cash or check donations for Help the Helpers can be taken to The Daily Iberian office at the corner of Main and Lewis streets or mailed to Help the Helpers at The Daily Iberian, P.O. Box 9290, New Iberia, LA 70562. Checks should be made to Help the Helpers. Contributions can be marked for a specific participating Help the Helpers nonprofit organization or can be divided among all 10. Donors’ names will be published by the newspaper in an Honor Roll listing.