Hands together – Image Courtesy of Pixabay
Charitable acts are a fantastic way to make a difference in someone’s life. And you don’t need to simply give money. In fact, people in need generally appreciate receiving things they genuinely need rather than cash donations that can be misused or stolen.
Items of Shelter
There are homeless people in every city, and there is a crisis in some places. New York in America and Manchester in the UK are perfect examples. Living on the streets is tough on anyone, and sleeping rough even more so. There are many good people in a bad situation who don’t even have shelter. If you have an old tent lying around, someone will appreciate sleeping under something from the wind and rain. Some organizations even offer free mobile home removal for the purposes of refitting them for use by families in need of shelter.
Make a Difference with Essential Appliances
Almost 25% of American homes have more than one refrigerator, but there are also 1.5 million without one. Appliances like fridges, washing machines, and ovens are essential for running a clean and hygienic home, creating a massive problem if you miss either one. Of course, no one suggests you purchase an expensive appliance for someone. Still, it helps if you consider donating your old (and working) appliances to charities or someone in need before simply taking them to the dump. Most machines can last a long time if looked after.
Donate Toys and Games for Children
Children are very resilient and can make the most of a situation. But in a consumerist world, children can feel left out or bullied when they don’t have certain things. You can make a child’s day by donating your kids’ older toys and games that they have grown out of or replaced. For example, a last-gen games console or mobile device can be used by another child for years. But even toys and games for younger children, like toddler blocks and interactive books, would be greatly appreciated by parents and children alike.
Make the Most of Your Time
Most people think of money and property as their greatest assets. However, when you consider that time is the only thing you cannot buy or get back, it makes the case as a contender for the most valuable resource. So, it helps if you donate your time to helping others:
- Volunteer at soup kitchens.
- Help with packing at food banks.
- Perform welfare checks on mental health patients.
- Speak with your city’s homeless population.
- Spend time at various church groups and organizations.
With today’s modern pressures, you probably have much less time. Therefore, given that time is so valuable, using it to help others is a noble thing to do. You can work with various organizations to help even one person, and for that one person, it makes a difference.
Household Sanitary Essentials
Health and hygiene are essential for keeping some of the worst issues away. Additionally, there is a proven connection between poor hygiene and mental health problems. Mental health problems can prevent people from staying hygienic, while poor hygiene can cause mental health issues. It’s a sad catch 22 situation that can spiral out of control. And not everyone has the mental capacity or financial means to stay clean. However, bathroom products like soap and toothpaste are affordable to most, so you could donate some essentials as well as food.
Make a Difference to New Mothers
Perhaps the most challenging thing in life is raising a child. But what about single mothers trying to look after a new baby? Many new moms might be lucky enough to have help from family and friends. But millions struggle every day because baby products aren’t as cheap as they should be. A baby can cost up to an extra $1,000 per month because of the items needed. The costs of a crib, clothing, diapers, and feed add up quickly. So if you have any old things, consider donating or helping out with some essentials.
Feminine Hygiene Products
Further to hygiene products, consider some sanitary items. Women and girls have a harder time because of their period. A recent UK survey found that one in ten schoolgirls can’t afford female hygiene products like sanitary towels and tampons. That sounds like a low figure, but it really shouldn’t happen at all. The health and hygiene risks associated with this are severe. Then there’s the embarrassment and social stigma that will undoubtedly lead to bullying. These will severely affect a girl or woman’s self-esteem, causing depression and anxiety.
Summary
There are plenty of ways to help someone without giving money you might not have or want to give to a stranger. You can use your time in multiple ways to socialize or volunteer to help those in need. But baby products, food, and health and hygiene products will also help.
Kori
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