DEAR SUN SPOTS: In an effort to help children and families in need during Advent, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Auburn and Catholic Charities Maine are working together to host “Jolly Gifts,” an initiative that aims to warm hearts and offer support to parish and community members as they prepare for Christmas.

All are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy or gift to the “Jolly Gifts” display in the entrances of the parish churches (Sacred Heart Church on 8 Sacred Heart Place in Auburn and St. Philip Church on 2365 Turner Road in Auburn) through Saturday, Dec. 8.

Gift suggestions are board games, dolls, action figures, arts and crafts activities for older children or sports items. All items donated will be given to Catholic Charities Maine which will then distribute them to families in need that have been referred to the organization by community partners.

For more information about “Jolly Gifts” or to make a financial donation to the initiative, contact Deacon Denis at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish at 207-782-8096, ext. 1203, or Bill Wood of Catholic Charities Maine at bwood@ccmaine.org.

A special Advent section has been created on the Diocese of Portland’s website that includes a variety of prayers, blessings, and reflections; downloadable and interactive calendars; and event listings for the diocese. The section can be found at www.portlanddiocese.org/advent.

— Dave, no town

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m looking for the vendor who was always at the Central Maine Medical Center Holiday Craft Fair. She made sweet, small throw pillows that I always purchased. They have green gingham backs and hand-stitched snowmen on the fronts with cute sayings such as “Joy is in the Air.” I wonder if any of your readers might be able to help me locate this vendor. Thank you.

— Kathy, Lewiston

ANSWER: I’ve put in a call in to the Volunteer Coordinator at CMMC to see if they still have a listing of last year’s vendors, but if the pillow vendor sees this request or if any of our readers have information that will help this reader, please write in! These pillows do sound adorable.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In regards the Nov. 7 Sun Spots about Goin’ Postal helping with eBay, they no longer provide that service.

— Pam, no town

ANSWER: Good catch, Pam! I had Goin’ Postal in my Rolodex for eBay service, but you’re right, they don’t do that anymore. Readers, please write in if you know of anyone who sells items on eBay for people. The Rolodex and I need you!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Do you have a contact where I can send canceled postage stamps? I have been collecting them for a while, but don’t know anyone who can use them. Thanks.

— Charlotte, no town

ANSWER: Unfortunately, people don’t collect things like they used to; they are always attempting to get rid of what they do have! I bet you have some very interesting stamps though. I’m putting your request out into Sun Spots Land in case any readers want to have a peek at your collection. I am wondering if collage artists could use these or if there is a young stamp collector just starting out who would appreciate these.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.