As we prepare for the biggest feasting day of the year in America, it is easy to forgot about those who are less fortunate than us. While we think about how tough this year has been for us, with the recession, unemployment, rising energy costs, and other worries, the truth is that if you are reading this you have a roof over your head, a computer, and internet access. Around the corner from you may be a homeless person who has little more than the clothes on their back, so count your blessings and give thanks…
One person has decided to do something to help. Tracey Dillard thought to herself that many homeless could use a little helping hand. She realized that between lattes and cigarettes she was spending a couple of hundred dollars a month. What could that do for those less fortunate? So she and her partner called some friends, called some shops, and got some help. Now on Thanksgiving, she and a handful of volunteers are making a Thanksgiving dinner and making care packages for those homeless she knows could use a hot meal. In the planning, she realized that we may get snow on Thanksgiving. The one thing worse than being hungry is being cold and hungry. In addition to the meal, she is gathering donations of blankets, hats, gloves, and the like. So far she has some local business on board…Starbuck’s is providing coffee & some West Side Market vendors are offering up some fruit.
This is a grassroots campaign. That means that every little bit can help. More importantly, when we help out one on one, we can have a big impact on the lives of people right here at home. When you can see the appreciation of the man that lives under the bridge or in that alley, you can know that a real difference has been made. So what can you do? If you can donate food, drink, or time on Thanksgiving, they will gladly take any of the above. The plan so far is to work from about 11-2, so you don’t have to commit to the whole day. Can’t make it, don’t worry, there will be more opportunities to make a difference. Haven’t done all your grocery shopping? Pick up a few extra cans of corn. Going out shopping on Black Friday? Pick up an extra pair of gloves or a stocking cap. Next time you are buying toiletries, buy a few bucks worth of travel size stuff. Ask your favorite retailer or restaurateur if they have something they could donate. When you are homeless, a toothbrush or deodorant can be a real treat. Remember that this is a grassroots movement, so if you know others that can help, let them know! Thanksgiving is only a couple of days away, but Tracey and company are already planning a coat and blanket drive, as well as a Christmas meal.
Feed a Friend is a grassroots community outreach that is designed to remember and help our friends in need this Thanksgiving. As we prepare to spend time with our friends and family, we ask that you take time to remember those in our community who are not as fortunate. These are friends that many of us have yet to meet but they live in our community, on our streets and in our hearts. If you have it in your heart to help with your time or a donation of food or funds, please call Tracey Dillard at 216-210-9069.
Please think about how you can help this holiday season to make those who do not even have a home, have at least a hot meal. With this economic downturn, many more people are need of help than ever before. At the same time, services are being depleted of funds, and less donations are coming in. Give thanks for what you have, and think about what you can do for someone else.
