Is it really better to give than to receive?

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It is the time of year when people generally are in good spirits and naturally find themselves in a ‘giving’ mood. This year is an exception to the rule. Although many people are finding themselves struggling in this uncertain economy, non-profit groups and charities that depend on the generosity of others are finding things particularly difficult. Everywhere you turn there is another need and less people able to fill the void.

Charities all across the U.S. are struggling to meet the added demands brought on by foreclosures, layoffs and an overall slow economy. According to an article in the New York Times online edition, the current demand for services is only going to increase.

“We have seen an increased need from people who are facing foreclosure, job loss and decreased work hours,” the Rev. Michael M. Boland, chief executive of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, said in an e-mail message. “We are seeing a lot of renters forced out of apartments because the owners were foreclosed upon, and we’ve seen an increase in the number of requests for our emergency services, which include food pantries and hot dinners for the hungry and homeless,” he said.

Another area that is feeling the impact of the economic downturn is churches. Churches rely almost entirely on the giving of their congregation and when so many families are dealing with their own financial problems, they often don’t give the way they would like.

So what should you do if you want to give more but are feeling the pinch of the economy? I found this quote from BlackAmericaWeb News

Over the summer, when gas cost more than $4, Herb Ellison said his family cut back on eating out and other expenses so that they could afford the 45-minute drive to St. Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Church in Beckley, W.Va., for Saturday and Sunday services.

“When we do feel the pinch, it’s just a matter of setting priorities,” Ellison said, “This is the most important part of our week.”