I know that for many, this year has been tough. Some have lost jobs, some have lost loved ones, some have suffered physical illness... During the difficult times, some of us have been blessed by a gesture of kindness from another. Now it's out turn to give back...
I'd like to share with you a need that has touched my heart, and ask you to pray about getting involved. Please take a few minutes to check out the link below:
http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=d1c0f8b2eb00318e03f35d&skin_id=701&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url Many have heard about and some have likely participated in such programs as Operation Christmas Child sponsored by Franklin Graham of Samaritan's Purse. This program is similar. If you choose to participate, you simply select the age range and sex of a child that you would like to make a difference for this Christmas. You buy items that are appropriate (website has some ideas/guidelines) for the child, place them in a shoebox or similar sized box, wrap the box and ship it to the address provided.
My wife and I took part in this last year, and plan to again this year. All gifts will be given to a needy child here in the United States on one of the specified reservations, and are tax deductible. If you watched the video, there were some statistics at the opening. The Pine Ridge Reservation has the highest teen suicide rate in the country. They have the highest unemployment rate in the country, as there are very few places and opportunities nearby to work. The alcoholism and depression rates are through the roof. These are a people whose long, proud heritage was taken from them when they were forced to stop tribal practices and were concentrated onto desolate, undesirable lands that were but a fraction of their ancestoral lands. Do a little research if interested in the history... I'll try to get back on track.
Many of the families here live in run down dwellings with as many as 18-20 people per house. Many have little means to heat these tiny, inefficient homes during the harsh winters. Available and affordable food sources have contributed to incredibly high levels of diabetes, with less access to medical care than what we are used to.
I could go on... but will leave with this link to the Christmas Dream Boxes program. Check out their website and pray about making a difference in the life of a truly needy American child this year.
http://www.waeministries.com/ministries/christmas-on-the-rez/THANKS, and God bless!
Wendell
