As we enjoy the festivities of the holiday season, let’s remember that the poorer in our communities are not enjoying some of the same advantages. As we give to our friends and families, let’s remember to also give to the less fortunate. The ravages of COVID transcended the lines of sickness and death, affecting some businesses more deeply than others, abolishing the jobs for many.

I know: jobs are available and for the hard-working and there may be little sympathy for those who don’t accept them. At the same time, I realize that some levels of need make jobs more difficult. Those who have lost homes or cars may have no clothes for job interviews or ways to get to a job. Those who are struggling to find food may lack the energy or initiative to change their circumstances. A chasm exists between the disadvantaged and the impoverished. It is important to begin bridging that chasm.

A helping hand isn’t hard, nor need it break the bank. Giving comes with the realization of your blessings and a willingness to cut back for the benefit of others. Obviously our businesses need to make a profit. That’s not as easy as it was in past years, but remember that your diminished profits still look like a windfall to those without homes, without hot food, without the amenities you enjoy. Realize that no matter how small your business is, it is part of the fabric of social recovery. Studies indicate small and micro businesses dominate the frontline in poverty reduction. In short, smaller companies hire and retrain more easily than larger companies with layers of bureaucracy.

I am a one-woman effort, and even if I cannot provide a job for the less fortunate, there are still ways I can make a difference. It’s true for you as well. What are some small ways to help the destitute?

Donations to the Salvation Army and a number of other charities are an easy way to help, but I am suggesting a more hands-on approach, one that includes your employees or families.

·        Organize the assembly of blessing bags. Easy inclusions are soap, first aid supplies, small cans of food with tab removals, socks, gloves…the ideas are endless. Find countless ideas for items to collect. Put one of each necessity in a Ziploc bag and take them to an outreach center. Post your plan on social media and let customers participate to maximize your efforts. Family participation make this a great lesson for our littles appreciation of what we have.

·        Volunteer at a local food service. It’s not hard. Independence has more than forty homeless camps, and many receive hot meals and groceries. Contact our local Community Services League to lend a helping hand. It is an eye-opening experience.

Most importantly, don’t stop serving when Christmas ends. The poor are ever with us.