“For It Is In Giving That We Receive” – St. Francis of Assisi
In just a few weeks, we will pause to remember all for which we are thankful. One of the best ways that we can express our thankfulness is by giving back to others that are in need.
“You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Food insecurity is defined as “a person not being assured of three daily meals.” In DuPage County 9.2% of residents (nearly 85,200 people) and 7.8% of children (almost 1 in 12) are food insecure. Many families in our greater community rely on food pantries for a portion of their meals each day, let alone Thanksgiving dinner. These pantries rely on donations and volunteers to serve the people that come through their doors. Visit www.solvehungertoday.org to donate and also for a list of local food pantries in need of volunteers.
Hesed House is another source of meals and more for the food insecure 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). There is a Holiday Wish List on their website to meet the needs of their guests and provide each of them with a gift.
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. 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 to 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.
