Help for the Holidays
October 11, 2011 at 2:55 PM
Each holiday season we hear from volunteers, donors and new friends who are moved to help, but don’t know what they can do. In anticipation of the giving season, Friends of the Homeless, Inc. would like to make some practical suggestions because in this economy, every dollar counts and there are too many in need to duplicate efforts.
First and foremost, the holiday season coincides with the FOH annual fundraising campaign. We count on raising the majority of our dollars at this time of year. It’s what keeps us going all 365 days a year, because homelessness knows no season. If you don’t receive our letter by mail, we would be happy to add you to our mailing list. We hope that everyone will give as generously as they are able. You might also consider committing to a series of donations that allow you to spread out your payment, but increases our annual support.
If you traditionally send holiday cards or throw a holiday party, you might consider“in lieu of” donations to Friends of the Homeless, Inc. It will lighten your workload while lifting your spirits by helping others. Some office groups have forgone inter-office gifts to pool their resources as a contribution. Money contributed to the work of FOH will be remembered long after the glow of the holiday season fades.
Material donations also make the holidays a little brighter for those who have little to celebrate this season. For your convenience FOH has a needs list and giving suggestions on our website. As we try to manage a large number of people in the course of our day to day operation, it is very helpful to know what you’re bringing and when we can expect you.
Finally, the gift of your time is always appreciated. If the spirit moves you to give some volunteer hours, we have opportunities to serve meals in the FOH Dining Room. We serve 3 meals a day, every day, including the holidays. Because we rely heavily on volunteers to staff our food service, we ask that you schedule your service in advance and notify us if you cannot make it. Your presence is important because it also adds a human connection to your gift and the lives of our clients.
In whatever way you can contribute, please know how much it is appreciated. FOH started as a group of concerned citizens and remains today a small group with a large task. The need in our community is tremendous and your support enables us to do the work we do.
Kathy Tobin
After almost thirty years covering the news for television affiliates in Western Massachusetts, Kathy joined Friends of the Homeless in the fall of 2009 to help raise money and the profile of the organization to fulfill its mission. As Director of Development, Kathy is available to help you understand the work we are doing and how you might contribute to end homelessness in our community.