Spreading Christmas Cheer

Just wanted to take a moment to share some wonderful ways you can help this Christmas. I know at times we feel the desire to help others, but don't know how. Often we wonder if the charity is reputable and if the money gets to those who need it. After much research, these are three of the many non-profit organizations you could choose to help and feel secure in knowing you are making a difference.

One Heart Bulgaria http://www.oneheart-bg.org/
Such a wonderful opportunity. This organization (that is nearest and dearest to my heart) does so much good for the forgotten children of Bulgaria. Check it out. You can provide a surrogate grandmother to a child, provide medicine, food, clean water and new linens with one time donations. I will be collecting for them until Dec 3 in hopes to raise enough funds to provide a Christmas meal and presents for an entire orphanage.

Harvest India  http://www.harvestindia.org/
Another great opportunity to help a child in need. These wonderful people help the orphans of India by creating "children's homes" where orphaned children are brought into family style living environments and given the chance to have an education, along with the basic necessities of life. India has the highest rate of orphans in the world, over 31 million, 17 million of which are child labourers. A friend of mine and I have adopted a children's home and are collecting funds so that every child in that home can have a holiday meal and a new outfit. Harvest India will take a digital photo of your child receiving their new clothes. What an awesome chance to teach your children about serving others.

Operation Smile http://www.operationsmile.org
A fabulous organization, also helping children in third world countries and there is no better time to donate than December, because during that month, your donation is matched dollar for dollar. A donation of $240 will provide 2 children with the surgery and medical care needed to correct cleft palates /lips and other facial deformaties. One in 10 children born with a cleft palate die before their first birthday, and those who survive are often ostracized and mistreated. A small, 45 minute surgery can start a new life.

I know money is tight at this time of year, and it can seem overwhelming to even think about sparing a few dollars. But maybe rethink you dinner/movie/babysitter night and make a difference in a child's life.

Merry Christmas and God Bless xoxo.