In just a few weeks, we will pause to remember all that we are thankful for. One of the best ways that we can express our thankfulness is by giving back to others that are in need.
“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” Mother Theresa
Food insecurity is defined as “a person not being assured of three daily meals.” In DuPage County 9.8% of residents (nearly 100,000 people) and 16.4% of children (that’s 1 in 6) are food insecure. There are many families in our greater community that have to rely on food pantries for a large portion of their meals each day, let alone Thanksgiving dinner. These pantries rely on donations and volunteers to serve the many people that come through their doors each month. Visit the Community Hunger Network to find the local food pantries and contact them to find out what their greatest needs are. (www.communityhungernetwork.org)
Hesed House is another source of meals for the less fortunate in our community via their shelter program. The PADS program (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) from Hesed House also relies heavily on volunteers and donations. (www.hesedhouse.org)
Senior citizens are another segment of the population that has people in need. The DuPage Senior Citizens Council tries to meet the nutritional needs of area seniors with Meals on Wheels (and other services). The delivery volunteers may be the only person that the senior sees for the whole day. (www.dupageseniorcouncil.org)
There are many ways we can give back in our community and these are only a few. While we enjoy the many abundant blessings we have this month, let’s also remember those in need and find a simple way to give back.
