(KFVS) - The American Red Cross will be collecting and distributing cards that send words of encouragement, gratitude and cheer to America's heroes for the holiday season.

Between Oct. 1 and Dec. 7, Americans can give something that means something by sending a card of thanks and support to members of the Armed Forces, veterans and their families.

The Red Cross is inviting the public to send messages of thanks and holiday cheer until Dec. 7 by mailing them to:

Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456

To ensure that cards are delivered on time for the holidays, the Red Cross says they must be postmarked no later than Dec. 7. Individuals are asked to refrain from sending "care packages," monetary donations or using glitter or any other kinds of inserts with the cards.

(KFVS) - The Fall Cover Photo Contest for our County News Facebook pages begins Monday, September 24 with photo submissions.

You can submit a picture or pictures of what you think best represents fall in your county. Send the pictures to cNews@kfvs12.com or click here to upload them. With the picture, make sure to include your name, what county it represents and where in that county the picture was taken. Pictures without at least your name and the county name will not be included.

Voting on the pictures will begin Monday, Oct. 1.