SUNBURY — Seven years after Melvin and Florine Beachel took their infant niece into their home, they’re still hoping to adopt the now 8-year-old child they call “daughter.”

But over the years, the Beachels, of Mifflinburg, have fallen on hard times and they’ve been unable to come up with the $700 or so needed to adopt Chassidy.

In 2005, Mr. Beachel lost his job of 27 years when Pennsylvania House closed in Lewisburg and he’s landed, and lost, a few other jobs in the intervening years.

The last time he was laid off was in April, after working three months at Aurand’s Machinery, in Middleburg, and he’s been collecting unemployment benefits since.

“I’ve applied for lots of jobs, but I think my age is keeping people from hiring me,” the 55-year-old said.

Mrs. Beachel, also 55, worked for years at a local silk mill and as a bus driver before she began collecting disability payments because of a medical problem that arose two years ago.

The Beachels, who married 13 years ago and have adult children from prior relationships, have paid off their home at 111 Dice Road in Mifflinburg, but still struggle to pay for upkeep, heating oil and other necessities.

Soon after they bought a used washing machine, their dryer broke and they have no money to replace it.

A couple of months ago the gas company took away their 100-gallon tank for failing to pay the bill in full, so Mrs. Beachel has been baking at her older daughter’s nearby home.

“By the time we pay our bills, we’re lucky to have money left over,” she said.

The Beachels are among hundreds of Central Susquehanna Valley residents who have applied for assistance from the 23rd annual Needy Family Fund sponsored by The Daily Item, Sunbury Broadcasting Corp. and Susquehanna Bank in cooperation with the Salvation Army in Sunbury and Milton.

Started in 1987, the fund has raised $1.67 million and has provided food, clothing, gifts and financial assistance to needy families in Montour, Northumberland, Snyder and Union counties every holiday season.

This year, as it has been since 2005, the goal is to raise $75,000 by Dec. 25.

The stories of people and families in need will be brought to The Daily Item readers and Sunbury Broadcasting Corp. radio listeners every day now through Christmas Day.

“With unemployment growing, and families everywhere tightening the belt on spending, the Needy Family Fund has never been more essential,” said Roger S. Haddon, president and CEO of Sunbury Broadcasting. “We are again hopeful that those with means help their neighbors who are struggling to make ends meet. This area’s ability to rise to that challenge is always a shining symbol of true holiday spirit.”

Gary Grossman, publisher of The Daily Item and The Danville News, said the holiday fund drive will help many of the unfortunate in the area.

“Knowing what kind of year it has been for the economy, we believe the annual Needy Family Fund will help a number of Valley residents caught up in the downturn, maybe even some who helped the fund in previous years,” Grossman said. “In appreciation for all who contribute, the Needy Family Fund will try to do the most good with every dollar donated.”

As of Thursday, 250 people had signed up at the Salvation Army’s Sunbury office for food, gifts or other assistance from the fund-raiser and enrollment will be held again from Nov. 30 through Dec. 3 and on Dec. 8.

In Milton, 300 households have so far applied for assistance and Salvation Army Maj. Ray Bartholomew said he’s expecting many more.

“We are not sure what the need is going to be this year, but with unemployment in the area over 10 percent, we believe the number of families seeking help will be on the rise,” Bartholomew said.

Applications for assistance from the holiday fund in Milton is taken each Tuesday and Thursday or by appointment by calling 742-4231 only through Dec. 10.

Salvation Army Maj. Sharon Cupp, of Sunbury, said she’s optimistic the fund goal will be reached and needs of the unfortunate will be met.

“I have been grateful for the generosity of the Needy Family Fund and as we look to this year the need is greater,” she said. “I know we will have another successful year as in the past. These funds have helped us greatly with putting a smile on people’s face when they get something for Christmas for their kids and food to eat.”

The Beachels have been the recipients of the holiday fund for the past two years and said it made a world of difference in their household.

“We would have had nothing without it. There would have been no Christmas gifts or food,” Mr. Beachel said.

Chassidy got a bicycle last year and has already written a two-page wish list and sent it off to Santa.

The Beachels are grateful for whatever is provided.

“It’s not the idea of how big the package is. We’re thankful for everything. A little something always goes a long way in God’s heart,” said Mrs. Beachel, adding, “We always gave to charities before, never thinking we would need it.”