The San Jose Mercury News Wish Book Fund Inc. and East Bay Times Share the Spirit encourage civic philanthropy by seeking reader donations to individuals, groups, and organizations in need in the Bay Area. Through an annual series of newspaper articles during the holidays, readers learn about needs and solutions, and all donated funds stay in the Bay Area to help those in need. The Mercury News Wish Book and East Bay Times Share the Spirit are rooted in the basic values of excellent journalism and a desire to help the less fortunate. Categories of giving include -- but are not limited to -- education, job training, health and welfare, youth and families, food and shelter and community resources.