Paloma Vukovar
There are many opinions about what the exact definition of “charity” is. A number of people will tell you it is an activity or gift offering, which will benefit single individuals, while others are convinced that it a foundation created to assist the public at large. Whatever the opinion may be, one thing they all agree upon is, that whoever is involved in charity usually has a kind and caring attitude toward people, and loves to help those community members who are in distress.
It is a misconception that charity only involves donating money, food, clothing, shelter and other basic living necessities. Providing aid also entails helping people to retain their independence, dignity, and peace of mind, life qualities many elderly and challenged individuals have trouble keeping. They may lack the funds to keep their home or pay for a caregiver, or the quality services and technologies they need to sustain their independence may just not be available to them. Disabled people may require special wheelchairs, prostheses, expensive medication and therapy, and many more.
If that is not enough, many seniors and people with disabilities are victims of discrimination. They may have trouble finding employment, or are denied certain services just because of their age, or afflictions. That is why voluntary advocacy groups are so important. These are charities that will fight for the rights of those elderly and challenged individuals who are too poor, or too weak, to defend themselves.
Christmas charities bring joy to the elderly
Many believe that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. Wherever you go, there are brightly lit Christmas trees, mistletoe, colorful decorations, and festive music plays in stores, restaurants, banks and other public places. People are smiling as they leave a boutique, crossing off yet another gift from their shopping list. You can sense that they are happy, and are looking forward to spending a few relaxing days with their friends and family.
The sacred time of Christmas should be a joyful occasion for everyone! Unfortunately, it is not. With a worldwide economic recession in full swing, natural disasters and post-war traumas still ravaging numerous countries, many people cannot afford to buy even the most basic essentials they need to stay alive. These victims have trouble feeding themselves and their families, let alone buy frivolous presents and decorations.
Affected by poverty are many, but the elderly and disabled people even more so than others. These citizens may be discriminated against because of their conditions, may be unable to find employment to make extra money, or they may not be capable to work at all, because of a physical or mental handicap or illness. The sad truth is that quite often, and because of these debilitating circumstances, not only the elderly or challenged people themselves are suffering, but also their children and those living with them.
During the Holiday Season, many charitable organizations around the world will reach out and organize special Christmas drives. Countless volunteers will collect money, food, blankets, clothing, toys, and other necessities, which will be given away at the end of the year, to those who need it most.
Conveying the Spirit of Christmas comes from the heart and it can start by inviting an elderly neighbor to join you and your family for a meal, and if you are invited out, you can always bring back a snack for them. If you have disabled friends who are single and house-bound go pay them a visit, or send them a nice long letter to let them know you are thinking about them. It may not always appear that way, but loneliness can often be as painful as hunger.
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