Last winter, people were hanging plastic bags of items on a chain-link fence in downtown Fredericksburg. This week, there’s a similar occurrence.
“Winter coats, gloves, and hats for the homeless are being charitably placed under the Route 1 bridge on the Canal Path,” Kevin Brown wrote to Fredericksburg.Today. “In past years, people have left these items on chain link fence along the path.”
While the donations are sincere, gracious, and appreciated, there are even “better” ways to help those in need.
During an interview earlier this year, Meghann Cotter, executive servant-leader of Micah Ecumenical Ministries, said it’s best to help others by donating to agencies working in the community. These agencies, including Micah, can tell you what is needed, based on their current inventories, and who is in need. They can also work together to meet needs.
For example, there are more than a dozen local agencies working together in the Holiday Assistance Coalition, led by Rappahannock United Way. Their Charity Tracker Network helps ensure donations are received by those who need them most during the holidays.
U4C Victory Ministry is sponsoring a Christmas Break Food Drive for the more than 470 homeless youth in Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Caroline and King George. The Christmas Break Food Drive collects food items and works with area agencies to distribute the food to young people in need.
You can also check with The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region to learn of other opportunities to give.
Thank you for caring. Thank you for giving.
-Susan
More
The Fredericksburg Region’s Comprehensive Holiday Event and Volunteer Opportunity List
#OptOutside On Black Friday
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