"The Season of Caring is getting underway and we are officially accepting donor registrations and requests from those in need," said Cindy Evans, Volunteer Center senior associate with the United Way of Pierce County.

United Way Worldwide is the leadership and support organization for the worldwide network of nearly 1,800 community-based United Ways, like the one dedicated to helping the residents in Pierce County.

According to the United Way's statistics, two out of five homeless individuals in Pierce County are children. With those sort of staggering statistics, its no wonder that the United Way needs all the generosity and help it can get from local citizens, companies and groups - especially at this time of year.

The largest components of the Season of Caring are the giving trees, which provide holiday presents to kids ranging in age from newborns to 18-year-olds. Donors can contact that United Way office and complete a donor registration form; they will then be given tags with the age, gender and needs of each child. Companies and groups are also encouraged to coordinate giving tree drives through the United Way.

Gift ideas for children include baby dolls and other dolls; learning and educational toys; cars and trucks; jewelry making kits; building blocks; books and journals; and sports equipment for the younger set.

When it comes to teenagers, popular requests include gift cards for music; movie passes for local theaters; CD/MP3 players; gift cards for fast food; gift cards for clothing stores; sports equipment; and make-up or bath and body products.

It is important to note that the firm deadline for all giving trees' donations and the items collected from toy drives is Dec. 13.

And, while there are no United Way Thanksgiving programs in place within the county, Evans can connect donors with area food banks and other organizations, which can use any food or monetary donations.

However, the winter season is not just about food and gifts; for many of those families living outdoors, the real challenge lies in just staying warm. So this year, the United Way has added Warm Needs Drives, which can be coordinated by an individual or a group and are a huge part of the community's outreach.

Items that are good to give to a Warm Needs Drive include coats, sweatshirts and hoodies; winter boots and other warm, closed shoes; hats; gloves; thermal underwear; raingear; and, finally, blankets.

"Unfortunately, the demand for resources is always higher than the supply," said Evans. "I don't foresee the overall need dropping at all this year, especially given that the economy is still struggling. People need help."

To get involved or learn more about how you can help during this Season of Caring, contact Evans and the volunteer center at 253.597.6457 or volunteer@uwpc.org.