Gentle Reminder of Helping & Kindness

 Just a quick and gentle reminder that so many do not have what we have.  So many do not have family or any support system.  So many do not have homes or shelter.  So many just need a little hand up.  We can help!

It is starting to get cold outside and for some reason these things come to mind most this time of the year.  People need some help all year long - but cold weather just makes our hearts open a little more!

Being down on ones luck could easily happen to anyone.  I always think "for only by the grace of God".

Most of us have family that would help - we have friends.  Hopefully we would be OK.  Many don't have that network and are all alone in this world.

If you can donate to a food pantry or soup kitchen, please think about it.  If you can't get out and buy goods, or stop by and donate from your stock - maybe send the pantry money or a GC to use to buy supplies.  I have a former alum from high school who does so much to help  our side of town and I donate funds to him often to buy goods.  He gives out bags of groceries at different locations - no questions asked.

Food, health and beauty items, laundry items and pet items are always welcome at food pantries.  Many people just think food - but so many things are needed to help on a daily basis.  One can go to Dollar Tree to buy bottles of laundry detergent, 4 packs of TP (they can be divided at pantry), multi packs of toothbrushes (again divided), deodorant, shampoo, soap, pet food - all kinds of things that are needed and won't cost you a lot.

Beans and rice products, pasta sauces, pasta, soups (even Ramen multi packs), cereal, peanut butter, jelly, etc. can be purchased cheaply as well.  Watch the sales and clearance at the grocery.

Maybe you know  a family that needs supplies - but you know they would be very embarrassed to accept help.  Buy a GC (what you can afford - anything would help) and mail it to them.  A card to a store that sells grocery goods would be best - but whatever they may need.  To avoid them knowing it was you - list BOTH the mailing and return address as theirs. BE SURE YOU HAVE CORRECT ADDRESS!!!!!!!!  I am sure gas cards would be helpful as well.

SHELTERS will be filling up soon.  Think about donating socks, gloves, hats, scarves anything warm.  Maybe if you have extra blankets or pillows you could donate - that may make someone's night warmer and comfortable.  You can often donate clothes.  Coats.

Remember there are shelters for men, and for women and children.  Check your local listings to see where they are and call and see what they may need.  Some women and children may have left with just what was on their backs - so even gently used clothing would be loved.

Another thing might be to check with your area school and see if they know a child who may be in need of a decent pair of shoes or a coat.  If you can - donate one so that child doesn't have to be the "kid without" and bullied.

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I have MANY ideas for another post of things we can do to help out the holidays for those without or those who have no one (nursing homes, etc.).  I will do another blog about those.  I will include ideas for those ladies who may be alone and just want to start a new tradition or need ideas of what they can do.

Just a little food for thought.  IF you woke up in a warm bed, ate a meal, had clean clothes to wear - you are fortunate.  Not everyone is.  

Let us each do a little to help and give back.

Blessings!