Spring Break
Give to those in need
Issue date: 11/9/07 Section: Opinion
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Since Oct. 31 - the day the holiday aisle at Wal-Mart turned green and red on one side - America's focus has turned to gift-giving. With the biggest shopping day of the year only two weeks away, it seems the television, newspapers and Internet are crowded with advertisements encouraging people to indulge the materialistic fantasies of their loved ones.
On the other hand, there are families in communities across the country whose dreams this winter are a little more basic: food, shelter or health care. As the holiday season approaches, the WC feels the Western Illinois University and Macomb communities, as well as people everywhere, need to consider offering life-sustaining gifts to people who could use them.
If you missed Cans Across America, Friday is your last chance to participate in a large-scale food drive on campus. The Black Student Association's 5th annual Thanksgiving Service Project is collecting food in residence halls, the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center and the BSA office in the University Union; the last day is Nov. 9. Before you leave for break, consider donating macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes or canned vegetables so the less fortunate can enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner, too.
There are many other opportunities for generous community members, including donating funds to the Salvation Army at various stores in Macomb. The local food pantry, Loaves and Fishes, located at 400 E. Carroll St., provides both food and other emergency services to people in McDonough County, including utility or medical bill assistance and overnight lodging.
Other non-profit or volunteer organizations in town could also benefit from monetary funds or even a few hours' work on the weekend. The Humane Society of McDonough County, local Habitat for Humanity or Macomb Kiwanis Club are just a few examples of groups who might appreciate a sincere helping hand. Visit Macomb.com for more organizations.
Even though Macomb is a smaller town, there are always people in need. Students: This is your opportunity to show the community you care. Do you live off campus near a family whose yard is covered with leaves? Rake the leaves for them (just make sure to ask first). If you live on campus, consider offering your services as a free tutor as finals week approaches. We can help the community and help each other.
The next time you go to Wal-Mart and find yourself surrounded by green and red decorations and gifts, consider what it would mean to someone else to receive a donation that might get them through the winter. Even though college students often bemoan their empty pockets, consider forgoing that late-night fast-food run or extra beer at the bar and put a few dollars in the wallet of someone who needs it.
On the other hand, there are families in communities across the country whose dreams this winter are a little more basic: food, shelter or health care. As the holiday season approaches, the WC feels the Western Illinois University and Macomb communities, as well as people everywhere, need to consider offering life-sustaining gifts to people who could use them.
If you missed Cans Across America, Friday is your last chance to participate in a large-scale food drive on campus. The Black Student Association's 5th annual Thanksgiving Service Project is collecting food in residence halls, the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center and the BSA office in the University Union; the last day is Nov. 9. Before you leave for break, consider donating macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes or canned vegetables so the less fortunate can enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner, too.
There are many other opportunities for generous community members, including donating funds to the Salvation Army at various stores in Macomb. The local food pantry, Loaves and Fishes, located at 400 E. Carroll St., provides both food and other emergency services to people in McDonough County, including utility or medical bill assistance and overnight lodging.
Other non-profit or volunteer organizations in town could also benefit from monetary funds or even a few hours' work on the weekend. The Humane Society of McDonough County, local Habitat for Humanity or Macomb Kiwanis Club are just a few examples of groups who might appreciate a sincere helping hand. Visit Macomb.com for more organizations.
Even though Macomb is a smaller town, there are always people in need. Students: This is your opportunity to show the community you care. Do you live off campus near a family whose yard is covered with leaves? Rake the leaves for them (just make sure to ask first). If you live on campus, consider offering your services as a free tutor as finals week approaches. We can help the community and help each other.
The next time you go to Wal-Mart and find yourself surrounded by green and red decorations and gifts, consider what it would mean to someone else to receive a donation that might get them through the winter. Even though college students often bemoan their empty pockets, consider forgoing that late-night fast-food run or extra beer at the bar and put a few dollars in the wallet of someone who needs it.
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