Love Thy Neighbor
For many people, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the biggest shopping days of the year-- and with good reason! Most stores and websites are packed with deals, and given the proximity to the gift-giving season, it just makes sense. However, in recent years, many people have noticed the materialism of these days overshadowing the spirit of love and giving that we hope to find during the holiday season. That’s how Giving Tuesday got started-- a day to fight back against consumerism, and give back to the world around you!
The creators of Giving Tuesday encourage everyone, from small business owners to churches, and individuals, to view Giving Tuesday as a chance to give back to the community by supporting a favorite charity or nonprofit.
There’s no shortage of charities and nonprofits around the world, but if you’d like to keep it close to home, there are plenty of options in the area.
Giving Back To Your Community
Christian Help of Mingo County helps people (and animals!) throughout the community in a variety of ways, including helping with bills, helping folks get food or shelter when needed, housing animals in need of a home, and providing the only public transportation in the county! They’ve also organized a Christmas distribution for folks in need throughout Mingo County, West Virginia for 25 years. This year, the distribution will be a little different-- rather than a “store” to walk through, it will be a drive-thru. Those who come out need only bring proof of Mingo County residency to receive a box with Christmas dinner, toiletries, and Christmas books for kids.
Jacob’s Well Mission on 3rd Avenue in Williamson feeds the needy 7 days a week, including Friday and Saturday night, and Sunday morning.
The Tug Valley Recovery Shelter has offered a safe place for women and children in need since 1982. They have 11 beds for those who need a place to stay the night, as well as providing financial aid to victims of domestic violence, and helping them find other community resources and legal help. (To learn more about the Shelter, read here!)
No matter who you choose to donate to, Giving Tuesday is a wonderful way to celebrate the real meaning of the holiday season: loving and helping your neighbors.
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