I derive satisfaction from being the one rendering help than receiving help, so being part of the St. Vincent de Paul Society at church enables me to part in fundraising events for the poor in the community.
My time with St Vincent de Paul hasn't been long I am just over two months with the group but the input of time and dedication by every member is admirable. Some with cars will volunteer to pick up fellow members and even drop them off at home on the days we meet for meetings and fundraising events.
You probably are wondering how we raise funds to render help to the needy. What I admire about the church is the donation base is strong and always willing to support.
The concept here is for any member of the church to donate cakes, it could be muffins, cupcakes, or even baking ingredients so members of St Vincent de Paul then volunteer to bake. The cake is then sold back to the church on a Sunday after Mass at discount rates.
That is how we raise funds.
Just over a week ago, we had a jumble sale, also of the same concept, unused clothing items still in good condition are donated to us, and we sell at discount rates for cash.
Any member of Society who knows anyone that needs help alerts the group and action is then taken. We have reached out to the elderly, orphans, the homeless, etc.
17th December we held a Christmas get-together for beneficiaries which includes hosting them for lunch and giving them food parcels for takeaway. We also gave out shoes to the elderly and children and for those whose sizes were not available their names and sizes were taken to ensure they receive theirs.
Engaging with the kids was the fun part for me, I chose the kid's table and had chat with them. It is interesting what they think of Santa, I was asked if Santa is real and for a split second I had to decide whether to lie or tell the truth, but I lied. Santa is real I said. And I was told Santa is from their village which had me laughing.
After a meal with them, it was time to attend to other activities so my chat with the kids was short but enjoyable.
This is the first time I am involved with a philanthropic group of people that dedicated time and service to the less privileged of society and it fills me with delightful satisfaction.
We owe it to ourselves to make Hive great
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