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Everyone feels strongly about certain issues, especially when they involve women or children in crisis. Regardless of whether it is a shelter for battered women or for abused children, most people want to help by giving more than money.
Donating money to charity makes people feel good, but when you visit the places where your donations go, you get to see that they are putting your money to good use. It also reinforces your passionate feelings about the charity when you see the people your donations help.
Visiting the organizations where you donate money, can actually prompt you to donate items as well as money. For those in need, the smallest thing that may not mean much to most of us means the world to them.
Battered women shelters and homes for abused children need comfort items as well. Shelters provide the essentials to sustain life, but the comforts of home are what they need to help them feel better about themselves after experiencing the worst days of their lives.
One way to help women and children in shelters is to put together kits or baskets that include the little amenities we may take for granted. By enlisting the help of friends and family members, everyone can donate a few items:
For Women:
- Cosmetic bags
- Makeup
- Hairbrushes and combs
- Fashion magazines
For Children:
- Board Games
- Toys
- Puzzles
- Books
For Both:
- Handmade items
- Inspirational poems and stories
- Homey knickknacks
- Wall decorations
These suggestions are only a few inexpensive ways to help, when you can get people to donate at least one item to each care package. If the shelters permit it, you can make cookies, cakes, or treats, which will brighten up days otherwise filled with sadness or with worries about their future.
Simple things in life can go a long way to make those in need feel good. Because it feels good to help others, everyone benefits.