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Monday, December 21, 2015

Have You Ever Asked Yourself This Provocative Question About Charity?

Every December, our family has chosen names off charity trees and bought presents for needy kids and families. But this act of giving felt hollow.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to give Christmas gifts to kids, but I remember the look on a mom’s face as she opened the door to accept the gifts I was delivering. She bowed her head, grabbed the bag – avoiding any eye contact. A look of shame spread across her face.

Our act of generosity may have met an immediate need, but it didn’t solve anything long term. She is still, several years later, living in poverty – and she’s not alone.

None of us want to believe that our help isn’t actually helping, but what if it isn’t?

What if our contributions aren’t empowering people to leave a harmful situation, distancing them even further from employment and a life of opportunity?

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4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Most of today's charities steal most of the money donated for "Expenses" and very little gets to the needy.

Anonymous said...

I look at it this way. If you gave from your heart and you touched one persons life you made GOD smile. Merry Christmas to all.

Anonymous said...

I have no problem helping the working poor. For those that are trying to do better, I rather give them a hand up rather than a hand out!!!!
I question where the money goes for some of these charity's like Bless our children. Does it go to mainly welfare recipients, or does if help those who are working but are having problems to just get by!
I know for myself and my family, we are totally broke. We have all agreed to limit our gift giving and instead use what little money we have for a nice meal for everyone.

Anonymous said...

Today when I went to the car wash, I tipped the kid $10. He got it all, and he was thankful. He said just a month ago, he had been sleeping on the street and was trying to get his life straightened out.
I like doing it that way. I think it's the most effective way.