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Monday, Oct. 26, 2009
The holiday season has all but officially begun, with Thanksgiving and even Christmas decorations taking the place of Halloween candy on store shelves.
But retailers aren’t the only ones gearing up for the holidays.
Local charities, food pantries and non-profit organizations are also preparing for holidays that will likely see many more in need of assistance – and those organizations will be met with struggle as they face the possibility of fewer donations to meet the ever increasing demand.
For that reason, it is all that more important to donate to local church groups and charities such as the Salvation Army or the United Way, who help in supporting those area citizens in need during these tough economic times.
Whether it is a few simple canned goods, articles of clothing or a few toys, these days no donation is too little and every little bit will count big.
Many families continue to struggle with unemployment in Michigan and in Michiana as the news highlights the disconnect among communities; with headlines of crime, homelessness and hardship this time of year, it provides a chance to get in touch with neighbors, friends and even strangers by way of giving.
To do just that, one can visit the Salvation Army in Niles at 424 N. 16th St. in Niles to inquire about how to help or go online at www.usc.salvationarmy.org/niles.
The organization is preparing for its food assistance programs for Thanksgiving, to be followed by programs to help with those in need at Christmas.
The United Way is another area organization to assist those in need in the Niles community and is just a phone call or a quick stop away, located at 205 Broadway in Niles or at 683-1011.
Food, clothing and toys aren’t the only ways to make a difference in the community at this time of year.
Time is also in great demand.
Through the Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan, one can find several opportunities to give back by donating time to various organizations, and for those out of work volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and even self worth at times.
And for those who aren’t sure what their next move should be when it comes to employment, volunteering can also open the door to a wealth of experience.
To see where time is needed, visit www.volunteerswmi.org.
And a recent New York Times article took a look at the recession’s impact on America’s youth, particularly, runaways. In tough economic times, the stress of uncertainty does not rest on the shoulders of the adults alone.
Children are just as perceptive to the financial pressures of their parents and that stress can lead to difficulties concentrating in school, falling grades and even depression. In such cases, as parents continue to struggle for survival, mentors can help give kids a new outlet for their worry while also helping to ease that anxiety and refocus on school and getting a little relief from their situation.
That is where Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass County can help. To become a mentor, stop by BBBS at 205 Broadway in Niles, call 684-1100 or go online at www.bbbs.org.