An idea for your “bonus” money

Now, more than ever, we have children going to bed hungry in the United States. We have parents who want and desperately need to work but their companies and opportunities have been closed. They have no money for basic necessities. They are at risk of losing their homes. We have business owners who have lost what they have worked their entire lives to build up. These people come from all walks of life, every age, race, color, and creed, and they are all anxiously awaiting the checks coming from our government's stimulus package.

This does not apply to everyone. There are many people who are not struggling at all. Of course, everyone appreciates extra money, but do they 'need” it as do the people barely able to live, either from starvation or depression from lack of hope?

Please, we are all in this together. Can we thank God for what we have, and make a pledge to do something good with the 'bonus” money coming from the government? Maybe you can give the entire $1,200, or even part of it. Maybe you can afford to give even more. There are so many local agencies and homeless shelters needing your money now so just choose your favorite. If you're looking for suggestions, a few might be HACAP, MCO (Metro Catholic Outreach), Salvation Army, or St. Vincent de Paul. Just Google the agency you want, get their address, and send them a check. You'll be glad you did.

Becky Picard

Cedar Rapids