Give a Christmas gift that is in the true spirit of Christmas.

[Padraig18]

We need no lectures here at DU on the true state of our economy, so I'm posting this to ask all of you DU'ers who can afford to do so to give a gift this year that will mean so much more than that new sweater, video game or whatever.

In every community in America, people are in need--- true need--- and the various groups who are there to help are finding their donations down at a time when demand for their help is rising. In our small community, the Ministerial Alliance, the Civic Association, Catholic Charities and the Mennonite Relief Agency all report an almost 20% increase in assistance requests, yet donations have either remained 'flat', or decreased slightly. These groups do not provide luxuries, but help with neccessities--- food, rent, utilities, clothing, prescriptions, eyeglasses, etc.--- and they are most peoples' last, best hope' at avoiding homelessness, hunger and illness.

Even if you don't think you have much, look around; is your rent paid? Is your pantry full? Can you afford to buy medicine when you get sick? If you can, then you are lucky. Please, give some less-expensive gifts, or fewer gifts this year, and give some amount to the groups who carry the Christmas spirit throughout the year.

Cheers! :hi:

[msanger]

1. great thought

and if you are going to buy stuff, by it through or one of its sister sites, or my site below. make your money do some good.

[Padraig18]

2. Also a great idea!

:thumbsup:

[Padraig18]

3. Kick

[Padraig18]

4. Kick

[Padraig18]

5. Kick