In the spirit of good will, offer hope and a hand to the down trodden!
People of all ages are suffering from the downturn of the economy. Lost jobs, foreclosed homes, bankruptcy, and mounting bills are the norm these days. By reaching out and showing compassion for those who are struggling, a very painful and humiliating position can be eased.
Have you experienced the lows of deciding whether to buy deodorant or one gallon of gas?
Have you tried to walk to the grocery store and home again carrying a heavy bag or two?
Have you ever had to scrutinize every single tiny purchase?
Have you ever delighted in finding a simple paperclip?
Have you had to choose between toiletries or paying to fax a job application?
If yes, then you know how difficult it can be to be struggling just to get by.
If you know someone who is struggling financially, here are some tips on how to be of assistance:
buy them a one-month city bus / subway pass
if they’re able, hire them to organize closets or clean out your garage
give them a gift card for a grocery store
make and deliver a casserole, or fresh fruits and vegetables
give gift certificates for food at Subway, McDonald’s, etc.
pre-paid money card from Wal-Mart that works like a debit card
pre-paid long distance phone card
packet of US Mail first-class stamps
box of plain envelopes
box of Christmas or Hanukkah cards (with postage and a new pen)
Target, K-Mart or Wal-Mart gift card
package of disposable razors, shampoo, bar soap, toothpaste, shaving cream
offer the free use of a fax machine, computer and the internet
offer the use of a bicycle
give them a ride (doctor, store, post office, etc.)
give them a free pass for a movie or a gift certificate for a book
take them to the park or for a drive in the country
give a gift of cash with no strings or judgment attached
buy them a pack of computer paper, an ink cartridge for their printer or a gift card to an office supply store
listen for ways to offer assistance
volunteer at a local soup kitchen or food bank.
“Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others, cannot keep it from themselves.”
– James M. Barrie
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
– Winston Churchill
Copyright ©2014 Lynn Davis Van Gundy • All rights reserved
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