Take a moment to 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 f itness regimen. For many, this week marks a pause. An exhale.
But this year is not like other years. We have not been traveling, partying, studying in crowded lecture halls, 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. We are yearning, so deeply, to hug — and to be embraced in return.
Because of the devastating pandemic, we face at least a few more months of the same.
Those of us lucky enough to have anything extra this year should compassionately give what we can to those who need it.
All nonprofits mentioned here get the highest rating from charitynavigator. org.
Feeding America is a national umbrella organization of food banks. According to its 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. Also do what you can to donate your time, money or food to your town’s local food pantry.
World Central Kitchen: In only 10 years, chef José Andrés has created a quick- response international feeding program, showing up with chefs and portable kitchens at the sites of natural disasters.
The pandemic has expanded its mission. WCK is distributing packaged meals ( 33 million meals in 400 cities) while 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.
Cradles to Crayons: One of my favorite charities helping babies and children has set up Giving Factories, to redistribute gently used kids’ clothing, books and new school supplies.
Imagination Library: National treasure Dolly Parton’s literacy campaign ( run through the Dollywood Foundation) has expanded internationally, mailing new books to millions of children.
Habitat for Humanity: Your local chapter continues the important work of building quality affordable housing for those in need.
Crisis Text Line: This innovative, accessible and successful crisis hotline reaches multitudes, offering 24/ 7 crisis support staffed by volunteers across North America. Anyone in crisis can text HOME to 741741 and receive immediate help.
Direct Relief: Founded in California after WWII by an immigrant, the mission was spread by other immigrants to America, who took up the cause. Operating in all 50 states and 80 countries, over this past year it has distributed masks, gloves and protective equipment as well as f inancial support to healthcare workers fighting the pandemic.
Homes for Our Troops: They work building and adapting homes for disabled veterans.
Bob Woodruff Foundation: The need for emergency support for veterans is overwhelming this year. This group answers the need, with money, housing and employment services.