Monday, November 2, 2009

Reaching Out


I heard something tonight that I found rather heartbreaking.  That is that first time users at the food bank have spiked 41%.  That's a lot.  Here we are living in such a blessed and wonderful country, and so many are having trouble feeding their families.  I know that for many of us we are just a paycheck away from being on the street, but there must be something we can do.

One of the things my family has tried to do is to come up with $10 a month and use it to purchase food to donate to the food bank.  I know, there are times when coming up with that measly little $10 is pretty hard, but if you can I know it makes a huge difference.  There is a store in our neighborhood that has cereal for 99 cents a box.  We purchased ten boxes one month and took them over.  Less than $10 can buy a case of canned vegetables at Costco or Sam's Club.  When soup goes on sale for $1 a can, we buy ten and donate that.  It's really pretty easy.

I know first hand how it feels to receive that kind of help to care for your family.  A few years ago I went through heart surgery, followed by two kidney surgeries.  Seven months later my husband had emergency eye surgery.  Even with insurance the medical bills piled up.  And when my husband was out on disability our bills weren't met by the disability checks.  We received food assistance through our church which literally saved us.  We wouldn't have made it without that help.

This is the season to count our blessings and reach out to those in need.  Pick up a box of Stove Top at the store, or a couple of cans of beans or cranberry sauce.  Stop by the food bank and drop it off.  It will make you feel good, and you'll help to lighten one family's burden.  Believe me, I know.

6 comments:

Karla said...

You're so thoughtful and kind. Thanks for the reminder. Now that I feel like I'm saving money using coupons for grocery shopping, I can also pick up extra "free" food to donate the charity as well.

Dirk and Trish said...

Such a good idea! It's amazing how many people we know who have lost jobs recently. I can't imagine what it must be like w/o friends, family, & church to help. Do you have a favorite place to donate?

Maureen said...

We like to donate to Care & Share because it services all of southern Colorado, plus it's nearby. They are always so excited when you drop something off, it makes you feel excited too!

Tiffany said...

What a beautiful and timely message. Thanks for the sweet reminder....my family will sit down and make some goals to try to follow your example!

Tara said...

What an amazing post! You are such a wonderful example to us ALL!!!

Rach said...

That's such a good idea. Do you know if Care & Share accepts donations other than food? I get so much free toothpaste, deodarant, toothbrushes, etc. and I would love to donate them to someone who could really use them. Thanks for the wonderful example.