Hunger Over the Holidays

 A writer writes!

This week is the annual reminder that despite being the self proclaimed greatest nation in the world, basic problems still exist in these United States of America.  For whatever reason many people in the United States live in poverty and go hungry every day.  That problem is magnified around the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.  All over the country churches, auditoriums etc. open up to feed people who simply need a meal.  Meals are also delivered to those who don't have transportation to get to a facility.

The generosity of the American people is appreciated to help those in need.  The generosity of people fills the gap where other organizations or governments are unable or unwilling to assist.  Locally I donate to an organization called Gleaners.  One of the features of Gleaners is a food pantry where people who need food can come by to get basics such as canned goods, bread, vegetables, etc. I have volunteered to work at Gleaners and saw people of all races, colors, and ages walk in to obtain food.  It is a humbling experience.  It's also a reminder that WE have a long way to go before we can rid these United States of America of the plague of poverty.

Yes, everyone who is able needs to work at a job that can provide them the means to purchase food.  But, in those instances where willing workers are unable to find a job, a mechanism needs to exist that allows people the opportunity to eat.  So as we enter into Thanksgiving week, as you pass that holiday kettle (that seems to be coming out earlier and earlier each year), drop some change in the bucket, or donate what you can to your local food bank.

Happy Thanksgiving!