By For the second year, the Town Crier will raise funds for needy families and children in Santa Clara County. Last year, the Town Crier Holiday Fund distributed about $60,000 to small non-profits.

Nine organizations have been selected to receive funds. These are small hands-on agencies for whom a dollar makes a difference.

Already, $35,000 has been committed in matching grants to stimulate contributions from Town Crier readers. The Community Foundation Silicon Valley is the fiscal agent for the Fund, making all contributions tax deductible. All administrative and promotion costs are covered by the Town Crier so that 100 percent of all donations are passed through to the needy groups.

A list of the recipient groups will be included next week.

Contributions can be sent directly to the Town Crier. Make checks to the Town Crier Holiday Fund, 138 Main St., Los Altos.

A tax-deductible receipt will be sent from Community Foundation Silicon Valley.

- Paul Nyberg, publisher