This is a sponsored post by The Salvation Army Chicago!
Most of you do not know this, but I grew up in poverty. There were times that we did not have power and water. Food was scarce and there was often times no money to buy clothing. This was in a time when asking for help was frowned upon but so was being poor. Either way, we were often looked upon with disdain as if my parents – who were hard workers and trying their best – were not as good as everyone else. My brothers and I only had a few articles of clothing and this caused ridicule rather than empathy. We did not utilize The Salvation Army, but if we had, our lives may have been better back then. We may have had some of the everyday necessities that were impossible for us to obtain, but something that the people around me seemed to have.
I want to talk to you about the importance of The Salvation Army. Everyone knows that name because they have been around for a long time. And they are not just helping people in need, they have made the world a better, safer and happier place for a countless number of people. As you know, I live outside of the great city of Chicago. The Salvation Army Chicago serves communities in Chicago, Northern Illinois and Lake County, Indiana by providing: emergency financial assistance grocery assistance through food pantries educational and recreational programs for children, adults and seniors leadership training and character development for youth.
The holidays are upon us and this is the season of giving. For adults who are unable to fully support themselves and for children who through no fault of their own are living in poverty, we ask that you actively set aside some of your thoughts, funds and or time to make a difference too.
During the holidays, The Salvation Army Chicago is in desperate need of volunteers. They need you to support the programs listed above. There are so many ways to get involved that even with your financial level or busy schedule, you will be able to find a way to make a difference in your community, city or state. You can find a way to help that suits you.
Thinking of what to give the person who has everything? How about a gift for the person that has a big heart and a smile for everyone. Make a donation of your resources or your time and write about your experience in a card. Explain how touched you were at being able to make a real difference. Talk about how much love you felt being able to truly help people in danger of not having food, clothing, shelter or role models. Then give this card to someone that you love for a Christmas gift. Let them know that you did this with them in mind as you were inspired by their kindness, help and thoughtfulness. This would truly be a gift that anyone would love to receive and one that you would feel good to give.
The Salvation Army Chicago are all about doing good in our communities and helping those who need it most.
To my fellow friends, neighbors and residence of Chicagoland, I encourage you to contact The Salvation Army of Chicago today and commit to lending a helping hand this season. Let me know in the comments if you have any thoughts or questions about The Salvation Army, poverty or how you can help. Has The Salvation Army helped you?
Follow the action on social media with the hashtag #DoGoodChicago.
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Cassie
I always try to give where I can at Christmas time. It’s important to remember how fortunate we are and support those less fortunate. The Salvation Army definitely does a lot of good in the community
Andrea
And let me add something here – when you buy something from any of the Salvation Army stores (where I live in NY, there are a few of them) – you are also helping people, so check them out!
Brandi
I can relate so much to your story. I grew up in similar circumstances. We relied on the Salvation Army for a lot of things. Thanks so much for this post.
Jake Ferrer
Me and my family do some donations before Christmas day comes. We do give some cans, rice, or any food and unused clothes.
Stephanie Cruz
I love supporting Salvation Army. As I grew up myself in a poverty-ridden country, my eyes were opened to the squalid living conditions of the poor and how even the basic necessities is a struggle to have. Thank you so much for sharing this
Krysti
Such an important charity! My family have used Salvation Army in the past. I will definitely be donating to my own local one. Thanks for spreading the message!
Debbie Savage
I love The Salvation Army! This is a really special post. I have been shopping there as a kid with my family and now still bring my little ones to enjoy this place. Brings up such great memories and we love supporting The Salvation Army!
David Elliott
This definitely reminds me that I need to volunteer this Christmas. Me and my daughter should be going out there and doing something good for others.
Andrea
If you can afford to give, give! You never know who you’re going to be blessing!
Cole Nemeth
This is a lovely post! I think it’s so important to volunteer and give back whenever you can, in whatever way you can!
Angela Tolsma
Supporting causes like the salvation army is so important and not just in the holiday season. Great post and that’s wonderful that you have come so far and still are willing to help others.
Tanya @ Intimate Explorations
Thank you for sharing your experience. This is such an important reminder all the time, but especially at this time of the year.
Carol Cassara
It would be nice to be able to help out and give as much as you can this coming Holidays! I think it’s awesome that you’re spreading the word about this.
Stephanie
What a great reminder about programs such as this. It’s hard to get out and volunteer at the stage of life I am in now with two preschool boys, but we find other ways to give. The boys will go through their toys in the next couple weeks and donate everything they don’t use anymore or don’t want to children who won’t be getting a Christmas otherwise. We also have done a shoebox of love through a local church that will be sent to Haiti for the holidays.
Angela Cardamone @marathonsandmotivation.com
The Salvation Army is such a wonderful organization! I always give to them over the holidays!
Jake Ferrer
It’s always good to know that there are some charity like The Salvation Army. God bless them.
Janella Panchamsingh
I think as a nation we need to get into the habit of giving not just at christmas but all the time
Debby
What a great post. Thank you for sharing your personal experiences as well as the mission of an organization that we all see. I only think about this organization at Christmas when they are in front of stores but they truly could use our support year round.
Glenda Kruse
It is important to lend a hand during the season. Personally, I try to donate to the Salvation Army at least a couple times a year.
jill conyers
The salvation army is a holiday classic and a wonderful way for others to give back.