2008 Year in Review

The Gift of Giving

All of us who watch the news know how the economy is faring. It seems like more bad news is given each night. Many have lost or are worried about losing their jobs. Necessary items are more expensive. Because of this, families may cut back on the spending on presents this year. Some may even have trouble buying food over the holidays.

Now more then ever, those who can afford to donate, should. There are several ways one can go about this. For instance, you could go to a store and buy a toy for a child that needs it, and drop it off at a location where donations are being collected. The program Toys For Tots is a great example of this. The Wal-Mart in both Rock Falls and Sterling is accepting donations for Toys for Tots. You can drop gifts off at a box located by the front doors of the store. Donations are due by this weekend.

Buy canned-foods or necessities and donate them to a local food pantry to bring aid to people in need. You can bring your food or money donations to the Morrison United Methodist Church.

Or, do some “Spring” cleaning in the Winter. If some clothes you have do not fit, give them to somebody who needs them. Even donate those shoes that have been sitting in your closet that have hardly been used.

If you have children, consider giving some of their toys that they have grown out of or do not want. Explain to the child where their toys are going and how much the kids that will receive the gifts will enjoy them. Consider how many gifts you have bought for your children during the holiday season, and donate one or two of them.

There are local programs that have been created to help those in need. The Helping Hands program has helped 49 families and 122 kids this year. Local churches have several ways of donating. Some have ‘adopted’ families or children to assist. For example, the Morrison Emmanuel Reformed Church had a tree with needy children’s names on them for people to take and donate to. The United Methodist Church in Morrison is accepting winter clothes donations (gloves, hats, etc.)

The holidays aren’t only for receiving, but for giving. Giving to those in need will not only give them a pleasant holiday, it will also make you feel good about yourself. Their happiness transfers to you. Participate in the gift of giving this holiday season with your donations.

by Marta Bender,
December 15, 2008