Dear Readers:
It is with a heart of compassion and concern that I write to you today.
It is not very often that I plead with you to assist those who are less fortunate, or those who are experiencing challenging times.
During the past several weeks many have been seeking assistance through this column. Last week alone I received at least six letters from families who are unable to eat a proper meal on any given day; single parents who cannot adequately look after their children; those who cannot afford to purchase uniforms, shoes, socks, and various school supplies for their children; and many who are up to their ears in debt.
Many are finding it difficult to feed and clothe their babies and countless others are desperately in need of jobs and proper places to live.
Their situations vary, but they have sought to place their needs before the public and ask that we help them ride out rough seas.
Too many of our women are struggling to make ends meet, and quite a few have openly disclosed that they are entertaining thoughts of suicide.
I was touched last week when members of the public responded to the letter written by Cave Hill Resident and carried in the DAILY NATION of August 4.
There was the kind gentleman who dropped off $150 at THE NATION offices; a young man from SBI Distribution who turned up with two boxes of foodstuff and toiletries; the elderly woman who said she did not have enough money to give but left two bags of groceries; and the couple who also brought bags of groceries to THE NATION.
It pleases my heart whenever I receive assistance like that from readers. Some people reach out with words of encouragement and others offer prayers and counsel because it is all they can give.
One reader called two weeks ago to donate a living room suite. Within a matter of hours, that was dispatched to a person in need. Another called to say he had a dining room set to give away. Yet another expressed his desire to make a monthly financial donation to a young mother who is struggling to feed her son.
I am always touched when readers respond without being asked to.
Despite this kind of response, there is still a need for more kind-hearted Barbadians to take time out and be their brother’s keepers.
Today, I appeal to you on behalf of those in need to lend a helping hand. Too many families are going to bed hungry and they are asking for your help.
In order for me to continue helping others, I am constantly in need of food items, clothing for babies, older children and adults as well as toiletries, furniture and household items that you no longer need.
I will be specially accepting items each day this month at THE NATION offices between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Your food and baby items, clothing and toiletries are badly needed, but whatever you give will be greatly appreciated.
I thank you in advance for your assistance and may God richly bless you.
– CHRISTINE
