The pleasures and benefits of giving

Christmas is almost upon us again.   A time when we give and receive Christmas cards and presents.   When charities appeal for financial donations.   When local organisations provide a Christmas meal for those who are alone during the festive period.

The act of giving is a rewarding experience.   Nor need it be confined just to Christmas.   It gives us a connection to other people.   Poor old Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol” is imprisoned by his own greed – until he discovers the joy of giving to others.

Town or city dwellers may come across someone who is homeless.   The easy option is to give that person some money.   However, some people on the streets are addicted to alcohol or drugs.   Our well-meaning donation will probably be spent on these.

It might be a better idea to buy the person concerned a hot drink or a sandwich.   This can also perhaps open up a conversation;   what is their story?   How did they become homeless?   Can we help them further in any way?

Many supermarkets collect donations of food and other goods for distribution to local food banks.   Giving to these can really help someone who is struggling financially – as so many people are at this time of year.

Supermarkets now also donate unsold, short-dated food to charities.   This helps people who are in food poverty.   It is also good for the environment, as the excess food does not end up in a landfill site.

We can also give of our time.   I once faced being alone at Christmas. On learning of this, a woman who I was volunteering with invited me to Christmas dinner with her family.   I had a wonderful time and really enjoyed myself.   That simple act of kindness and giving made all the difference to me.

There is the option of giving time and effort by volunteering.   This can be with a local or national charity or organisation.   Many small and medium-sized charities (including Hammersley Homes) rely heavily on volunteers.   They could not deliver their services without them.

We all have talents that we can offer, too.   I am quite good at writing, so I write a regular blog for Hammersley Homes.   This gives me the freedom to write about a variety of subjects – especially ones that I feel strongly about.   I enjoy doing this and I find it very rewarding.

There is also the flexibility of volunteering.   You can give as much or as little of your time as you wish.   Charities are grateful for any help they can get.   Among these is Hammersley Homes, who always welcome donations and offers of help.

Hammersley Homes are taking part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge, and they have recently received Champion Funding from The Hampshire Cricket Foundation, who have generously doubled their pledges.   The target now is to raise £4,800 in donations during Big Give Week, which runs from 3rd to 10th December.   Every pound donated will be matched and so will be worth double to Hammersley Homes.   Further details can be found on their Big Give page.

I truly believe that, “tis better to give than to receive.“   I wish you all a Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.