Today is Giving Tuesday. In the spirit of the day, we would like to invite you to join us in looking right in your own communities for opportunities to help those in need.
This quote stood out to us today, "...Rather than prop up a charity system, we aim to foster self-agency and a sense of community, where we all take care of one another and work toward a common good." - Northeast Arkansas Mutal Aid Society
Right here in Southern Illinois, we have many wonderful organizations doing amazing work each and every day. Heaven's Kitchen, Centerstone, The Promise, Night Shield, Lighthouse Shelter, just to name a few. Please visit their Facebook pages for more information and see if they fit into your personal mission.
Also, food pantries are in major need. After the cancelation of Scouting For Food, we started asking questions. We have learned much more about food pantries in the last few weeks. Many of those who depend on the local pantries for food also have children at home and often the children are preparing the food themselves. They need more than canned vegetables. They need "one can or box = a meal" type of items. We are here to tell you, a little goes a long way.
Here is a list of the food items needed in pantries:
Canned Chicken
Canned Tuna
Chef Boyardee Canned Pastas
Macaroni and Cheese
Canned Fruit Cocktail
Individual Fruit Cups
Breakfast/Granola Bars
Regular-size Box of Cereal
Regular-size Peanut Butter
Instant Rice
Chicken Noodle Soup
Vegetable Soup
Tomato Soup
Shampoo
Soap
We have experienced it firsthand, you can make a big difference right in your own backyard with a donation to a local food pantry, volunteering, and/or making a monetary contribution.
Join us in our commitment to giving to local communities.
Joe and Nina Helleny