Those that have, should give
DEAR READERS >> The week after Christmas is traditionally a sort of bloated rest period for many, where we recover from the busy holiday season by taking stock, tidying up, and planning our new year diet and fitness regimen — from the couch. For many, this week marks a pause. A sigh. An exhale.
But this year is not like other years. We have not been traveling, partying, studying in crowded lecture halls, or playing with our school friends. We have not been worshiping together, visiting our elders, or going to movies, concerts, and theater. We have been hunkered down, many of us out of work, exhausted from the altered lifestyle none of us anticipated — and we are yearning, so deeply, to hug — and to be embraced in return.
Because of a devastating pandemic that the WHO has deemed a “world-wide health emergency,” we are facing the possibility of at least a few more months of the same.
Those of us lucky enough to have anything extra this year should demonstrate the tenderest of tender mercies — by compassionately giving what we can to those who need it.
One way to share our desire to hug — and be hugged — is to give to organizations that help others. Your donation may go farther at a small local nonprofit than at a large charity. All contributions count. So do nonmonetary acts of kindness.
All nonprofits mentioned here receive the highest rating from Charitynavigator.org.
HELPING THE HUNGRY >> Feeding America is a national umbrella organization of food banks. According to their estimates, COVID-19 is creating a hunger crisis of more than 50 million Americans classified as “food insecure.” This includes 17 million children.
Through their website, you can donate money to your local food bank. Enter your ZIP code into the Feeding America website to find your closest member of their network. Also do what you can to donate your time, money, or food to your town’s local smaller food pantry.
WORLD mENTRAL KITmHEN >> In only 10 years, Chef Jose Andres has created a quickresponse international feeding program, showing up with chefs and portable kitchens at the sites of natural disasters.
The pandemic has expanded their mission. Traditional safety nets like school feeding programs, city services, and food banks are struggling to meet basic needs. Seniors, who are isolated for their safety, are unable to access meal services.
WKC is distributing individually packaged meals to hungry individuals (33 million meals in 400 cities). The organization is also helping to keep restaurant workers employed and working.
MEALS ON WHEELS >> During the pandemic, food delivery to seniors is even more vital. Volunteers safely delivering food are often the only outsiders to have any contact with seniors. Check with your local Meals on Wheels organization to see how you can help. (At mine, generous citizens can even sponsor a delivery van!)