CedarCreekLake.com pledged Christmas contributions this week of $500 each to two charities operating in the lake area. The contributions are going to Released Free Ministries, Inc. and Community Food Pantry. In the announcement of the contributions CedarCreekLake.com publisher Cassidy Lackey said he wanted to help the organizations provide assistance to needy residents of the Cedar Creek Lake. "I'm just trying to give something back," Lackey said. "It was always my goal to drive some of the advertising funds back into the community." Released Free Ministries is a nonprofit, faith-based prison ministry that teaches Biblical principles and life skills to those in prison, according to the organization's Website. The group provides mentoring, assistance in finding a local church, job and housing to those paroling to East Texas. Cass Bowker, president of Released Free Ministries, said donations are critical to the organization's work. "We could not do what we do without people like you," Bowker said in a note of thanks. "We pray that the Lord bless you for your giving, and that he will bless everything you put your hands to do." For information about donating to Released Free Ministries e-mail [email protected]. Community Food Pantry is a nonprofit food bank operated by five area churches providing groceries for needy families. Sue Ann Kosydar, president of Community Food Pantry, said the contribution would go a long way toward helping hungry families. "It is a significant contribution," Kosydar said. "It will help feed a number of families. For information about donating to Community Food Pantry, call 903-432-3003. CedarCreekLake.com's publisher is an entrepreneur, real estate investor and business executive. He is married and has four children. In 2008, Lackey founded Lake Hub, which is the parent organization of CedarCreekLake.com and five other real estate Websites advertising Texas lake properties. He is also cofounder of dfwinvestors.net and vice president of technology for Handmark, a software products company. He serves on the board of directors for Cross Timbers Church and Compass Wilderness.