Helping Hands

With such dire news about the economy lately, and the recent announcements of government budget cuts, I have been concerned about the organizations and charities that rely so heavily on our help this time of year. Most, if not all, get the largest amount of contributions between Oct. 31st and Dec. 31st. This when they make up their budgets for the rest of the year. With so many people losing their homes and jobs you know that donations will be down big time, as well as more and more people needing assistance themselves. Our church resently collected coats, change, canned foods, etc...to give to local charities. Here is a list of suggested organizations. Also, will you please consider sending this on to others and add on in the comment area if you have others, we really need to help this year.

• Salvation Army


• Samaritan's Purse - Operation Christmas Child
  
• American Red Cross
  
• Your local Soup Kitchen
  
• Your Church benevolence fund/food pantry
  
• Joni and Friends (One of my favorite, they help families affected by disabilities)
  
• A local crisis center (Because of the desperation, families are facing increasing domestic violence)
  
• Heat and Warmth fund (Detroit area - but I am sure you have something similar in your location)
  
• World Vision
  
• Angel Tree
  
• Heifer International


• USA Freedom Corps (Help for victims of hurricane disasters)


• Habitat for Humanity