We are now in the season of Christmas–well, the holiday season anyway, with Thanksgiving right around the corner. I bought my first Christmas gift this week, for my two-year-old niece. It sort of stung me into the realization that time will slip away if I’m not careful!
My daughter Hannah and I had several years alone, just the two of us, before we were blessed to have Lanier join our family. She and I loved making Christmas rituals. One was going through the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas catalog and selecting “gifts” that would go to the less fortunate around the world. Another was buying and packing up two shoe boxes (one for a girl, one for a boy) for Operation Christmas Child. Other opportunities abounded: Angel Tree at church (even Walmart does this now!), canned food drives. There are so many ways to give!
I love giving. I wanted to take this opportunity to share some organizations that I personally have given to, in hopes that you might be inspired to give as well. After all, it IS more blessed to give than to receive!
Partners in Health, founded by Dr. Paul Farmer, originally begun in Haiti as a medical clinic to serve the poorest of the poor.
Samaritan’s Purse: Franklin Graham’s organization, sending help all around the world in Jesus’ name.
Compassion International: Dr. Wes Stafford, former missionary kid and victim of child abuse whose tender heart is devoted to caring for children. You can sponsor a child or give a one-time gift.
New Day Foster Home in China. I’ve actually visited this place. They only take orphans with medical needs, ranging from cleft palate to serious heart defects. These kids are so loved!
Local Charities:
Kids’ Club New Braunfels: I volunteer here, teaching an art elective to first and second graders. These kids are awesome! Give financially, or give your time!
Options for Women: local clinic devoted to helping pregnant women in need.
Children’s Advocacy Center: a safe place for kids who have been victims of abuse.
I encourage you to create some holiday traditions if you don’t already have any, especially if you’re a newlywed and just starting out as a family! What a great time!