Beautiful Christmas Tree at Emory Midtown

 

The dip in Atlanta temperatures over the past week, has delayed residents putting up outdoor Christmas decorations as we wait for temperatures to rise.  I always look forward to see Christmas decorations as I drive throughout the metro area.  They are always such a delight and inspiration and we anticipate the spending time with family, friends and listening to Christmas music..the old and new songs throughout this glorious season.

As I passed through the main entrance of Emory Hospital Midtown, I was in awe of the beautiful “indoor” tree.  Hmmm.  I need a smaller version of this tree for my home.  Whether you have a beautiful Christmas tree or one that is more modest, do remember Christ is the reason for the season.

Donate Only What is Needed to Hurricane Harvey Survivors

Did you know that everything donated after a natural disaster or devastating event is not needed?  From people to corporations, after Hurricane Katrina & Rita, after Sandyhook, after Haiti and now after Hurricane Harvey, we must be cognizant of the most effect and efficient ways to give and volunteer.

Believe or not, a lot of the wrong stuff causes more harm than good and may not be used at all.  CBS Sunday Morning did an updated story on this important topic right after Hurricane Harvey so that our good intentions can bring joy instead of wasting resources and causing pain.  Perhaps we simply need to donate cash via online website, through churches and at on-site donations events to well-vetted organizations.  So think before you give. View the full show segment at:

https://www.cbsnews.com/videos/disaster-relief-donations-that-dont-bring-relief-2/

Also, Tom Joyner set up a unique fund with $20,000 seed money and is taking donations where 100% of proceeds will go to the people.  This fund collects money donations to give $1,000 Walmart gift certificates to people who open their homes to family, friends, co-workers and strangers. In many cases, these Harvey survivors will be staying indefinitely with these angels who opened up their homes.  In one letter to the Tom Joyner Morning Show (TJMS), a family had taken in 21 people who lost their homes.  Can you imagine the increased food and  utility bills?  See the full story an how you can help:

Open Arms In The Midst Of A Storm

BlackAmericaWeb.com Relief Fund

Now you have the information you need to make sure your donation will be used by those who need it for the purpose for which you intended.  Thanks in advance for being a part of the village of people who do not just talk about how bad the disaster is, but gives what you can to make a difference for those in need.

And, people who survive these traumatic events, whether a weather or violent catastrophe, let us refer to those affected by these disasters as “survivors” instead of “victims “.   Thanks!!

Photos from Google Images.