samedi 20 mai 2017

Giving To Inner City Charities

By Nancy Watson


Helping the poor is a duty in most religions and philosophies. In any case, it just makes sense. If society as a whole is healthier, everyone benefits. Anyone can find something to give, whether it's money, time, or talent. Inner city charities help focus giving on specific needs, which can be basic requirements for existence or assistance in achieving skills that mean a better future.

Inner cities have problems that are easy to ignore. Affluent people tend to congregate in up-scale areas of downtown or escape to the suburbs. 'Urban renewal' projects have revitalized many areas. However, many poor people were dislodged from their homes to make way for the high-rise apartment buildings, trendy restaurants, and upscale shops. Although their situation might have been far from ideal before they were forced to move, many ended up worse off than ever.

Most of us help in some way. We give at church, hand a homeless man or woman a dollar on the street, donate used clothing to a worthy cause, or take socks and underwear to people living under a bridge. We give to United Way.

These organized efforts are important, because they provide some stability to those who aren't making it on their own very well. Shelters provide places to sleep for individuals and for whole families who may have lost their home. Sleeping in cars or in alleyways is a very real situation in most cities.

Providing a meal and a place to stay helps on an immediate level. Many efforts focus on longer-term help, like recreational facilities for urban youth, scholarships for talented students, or adult literacy programs. Keeping children off the streets after school may lessen the attraction of gang membership. Helping a young person get a college education can mean a better life. Learning English can help an immigrant get a job and keep it.

The organizations that provide hands-on help may be supported by foundations that make coordinated efforts possible. A foundation may be sponsored by one wealthy individual or by a corporation. Support may be financial, by raising public awareness of a problem, or by hosting fundraising efforts. Many social functions have a humanitarian aspect, even if all that most see is the red carpet.

People can help by writing a check (it's important to make sure the recipient is an effective and responsible group), donating new or used clothing, giving time to a food bank or shelter, or tutoring someone who needs academic help. The first step is realizing that there is a need that can be met. The second step is deciding to do something that will make a difference.

Some people can give a lot in a magnificent gesture. Others may decide to skip their morning latte and give that money to a deserving cause. Those who cannot give financially may be able to do even more by giving of their time and talents. The more people who help, the more people who are helped. It's as simple as that.




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