Stocking Up ... Not Just for the Winter / Sharing Giving to The Poor

All of us who shop food sales (and other sales), use coupons and savings websites do so to save money and provide for our families in the most economical way.  There are, of course, other reasons to stock up.  Here in Florida, since 2004, we have had hurricanes come our way and one of the necessary preparations is to have plenty of non-perishable food on hand.  We have always stocked up during this season “just in case” but only during 2004 have we ever had to use food for that purpose.  We have donated food at times for other areas of the country or world that have had other natural disasters...Haiti last year, for example.

This is my kitchen pantry ...

...kept behind closed doors.

Another reason and I think, one of the best, is to stock up to share with others.  I have mentioned in  previous blogs about donating to needy families.   Two weeks ago United Way was calling for donations at my husband’s office.  A few weeks before that they had a large school supply collection at his office as well.   Last week was our first food donation of the season.   A neighbor informed the rest of us that there were 40 homeless families (up from 8 last year) with children attending our nearby elementary school and took up food and hygiene collections for them.   Although people are in need year-round, the fall / Thanksgiving time of year seems to be especially taken note of by various organizations who gather and provide food in bulk for our community and elsewhere. 

This year, as you are saving $$ on groceries for your family, take the challenge and purchase a little extra for someone else who most definitely will be in need at some time this fall.  Set a little more aside to give and to share.    Sometimes the "needy" are right in front of you --your neighborhood, your extended family, your church...

Psalm 72:13 

He will have acompassion on the poor and needy, 

And the lives of the needy he will save. 

Mark 14:7 

For you always have the poor with you, 

and whenever you wish you can do good to them...