This has been a difficult year for so many families. One part of me cries out for lots of spending (in locally owned stores) to boost the economy and rebuild the job base. Another part cries out for less spending on friends and family and more giving to those in need. So here are my holiday gift suggestions:
I’m sure you know where your stores are, so let me concentrate on charitable giving. There are plenty of scammers out there, and it is important to see that your donations go where they ought to. A good place to search is Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.com).
Other than that, I recommend contributing to your local food bank. Many grocery stores have collection bins this time of year, and many churches accept food offerings. My church collects food for the Western Wake Crisis Ministry located at 103 E. Chatham St. in Apex (www.wwcm.org).
How about Goodwill, Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity’s Re Store (2420 Raleigh Blvd. in Raleigh and 5501 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd. in Durham)? Don’t just donate things. Buy things.
If you have a family member suffering from Alzheimber’s, you know how badly we need more research. In Fuquay Varina there’s a thrift shop whose proceeds go to this purpose: Guardian Angel Thrift Store on 742 N. Main St. (www.guardianangelthrift.org).
It’s my own personal thought that Christmas isn’t about spending lavish amounts of money. It’s about being creative and thoughtful.
If you are thinking of purchasing a home in the near future, do NOT load up your credit cards or drain your bank account for Christmas. Give yourself the FREE gift of checking your credit on www.annualcreditreport.com (not the one you see advertised on TV).
Now, about that new home — please visit www.JustCallPowers.com.
