Many charities rely on the generosity of strangers to pull them through, especially during the holidays.

Some say the economy has definitely taken its toll when it comes to holiday giving and receiving.

'Tis the season of giving, but some local charities are reporting that donations are down, and demand for their services is up...with the economy to blame.

"We've been open ten days for November, and we've had 120 individuals need food orders, and those are the ones we could actually fill," says Criss-Cross, Inc. Executive Director Aime Darway.

Criss-Cross directors say numbers are also up for families needing help to put presents under the tree.

"You don't really think about Christmas until it's here and then you panic. How are you going to get gifts under the tree and food on the table?" says Darway.

Over at the Clarksburg Mission, Executive Director Chris Mullett says giving has remained steady, but he's seen the effects the economy has had on the people who walk through his doors.

"What's happening is that families are being affected, so we're seeing more families come through here," explains Mullett.

Many charity organizers say they've seen a big increase in people seeking holiday assistance for the very first time.

"We have a lot of first timers that come and tell us, you know, they've never done this before, and I say, 'well, you know, it's the best hidden secret you'll ever find is the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program," says Lt. Mechelle Henry with the Salvation Army.

Each angel represents a child that needs help this Christmas. Lt. Henry says that right now, more than 850 kids have been adopted. It's help like that, that keeps these charities open, but without donations coming in, some are afraid they'll be forced to close their doors.

"Criss-Cross has been here for 35 years, and a lot of people don't know we're here, but we might not be here in the future because funding just isn't coming in anymore," says Darway.

To reach Criss-Cross, you can call 304-623-6681.

The Salvation Army's number is 304-622-2360.

To reach the Clarksburg Mission, call 304-622-2451.