The Widow's Mite, In Action!

Yesterday, I posted about a widow who gave everything she had for the poor. Today, I'm able to share a story from a modern-day widow who endeavors to live that message. The letter that follows is an appeal from my mother, who turned 75 in August. In January, she will travel to Haiti with a team of volunteers offering humanitarian assistance to people devastated by the 2010 earthquake there. Will you consider offering your support? If so, place a comment on the bottom and I'll let you know where you can send a contribution. Any amount will make a difference!

Dear Friends,

Happy Thanksgiving to you and to your loved ones. While I am sending you my warmest wishes for a day of joy and blessing, I am also asking for your help. On January 12, I am heading for Haiti for a week with a team of approximately 25 volunteer medical people and construction workers. The group is called “Friars Suppliers,” and they have been assisting the people of Haiti for several years now. Last year the medical team of 12 was able to see and treat almost 1000 people in an area about an hour from Port-au-Prince, offering examinations and necessary medications. The building crew worked with men of the village in building roofs for 80 families still without adequate shelter after the disastrous earthquake two years ago. This year they have been asked to build 200 bathrooms, in an effort to stem the cholera in the area.

The “Friars Suppliers” provided their own medicines, antibiotics, syringes, vitamins, ointments, food supplements, etc. and building materials and equipment. They also were able to supply a month of food for 500. I am told that malnutrition is an ever increasing problem. One out of 10 children dies from malnutrition before the age of 5. Poverty is extreme, and the day to day life is so difficult for so many.

I feel privileged to be able to join the team this year. They assure me that there will be much I can help with, even though I do not have medical credentials or sufficient muscle for the building effort. And my part in trying to raise money this year hopefully will be of great assistance. Will you consider making a donation? Any gift will certainly be well used and is greatly appreciated.

Checks can be made payable to Friars Suppliers.