A few days ago an acquaintance of mine sent me an email about Quinn Brammer, a young boy from Watervliet, NY who needs heart surgery. The family can use help meeting expenses. Anyone who has had to cope with a major surgery in a distant city knows how expensive it is even if you have health insurance. I don't know the Brammer family, however I'm certain the need is genuine. Details about Quinn's situation are given in this flyer. If you are able, please consider sending some money to one of the addresses given in the flyer.
When I first received the email about Quinn, I dismissed it as I usually do. Not my problem. In fact, I had to recover the message from the trash bin. An alarm had sounded inside-- if I could ignore this particular request for charity, well then, I was morally in deep trouble. Likely in fear of eternal damnation, I mailed a check off to the Brammer's and told some friends and family about Quinn. Next thing you know my son writes that he' s sending a check. Today I received a most generous contribution from my brother-in-law. Maybe more is on the way.
In 2009 gifts to charitable organizations were $304 billion, down 3.6% from the previous year. The majority of giving comes from individuals, not corporations and foundations. As a percentage of income, the poor give more than the wealthy. Some large charities have been criticized for high overhead costs and other "charities" turn out to be complete scams. So here's my early New Years resolution as a result-- be more generous giving to those in need from my community. Thanks Quinn.
1 comment:
Enid,
Thank you for your contribution, and for writing this article. I know that Quinn's family is most grateful. I like your idea for the New Year. True charity needs to come from our pockets and our hearts-not funneled through bloated corporations, or government.
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