The sound of Salvation Army bell ringers has again brought memories of this glorious time of year that will be with me forever.
Thanks to volunteers with whom I proudly serve every season, I am reminded that this is a time of giving. I have devoted a huge portion of my Decembers to the Salvation Army, which I find to be a worthy cause.Sad to say, I have found that in these harsh financial times, people who customarily volunteer have found that they either don't have the time or the spirit. And people who normally drop money in the red kettles don't have money to spare.There was a time when I adopted whole families for the holidays and supported them with gifts, clothing, food and assistance with housing expenses. Now that I have been personally affected by the economic crisis -- my own income is maybe 50 percent of what it was five years ago -- the only thing I can truly spare is my time.Although I often feel like the little drummer boy who has no gift to bring, I am more than willing to donate my time to help others who are less fortunate. This same time that seems to have little or no value to employers is still extremely valuable to the Salvation Army.And not just during the holidays. Throughout the year, the Salvation Army needs volunteers for programs such as the Work Readiness Program (which teaches employment skills) and for programs that benefit the elderly and victims of domestic violence. There also are programs that assist in the rehabilitation of former prisoners and help people recover from drug or alcohol abuse.My family and I donate as much time as possible during the holidays. Even if we collect only a few dollars, it's a delight to know that any amount of money I collect in my neighborhood goes into the collective pot that feeds the homeless, the poor and the elderly here in Fort Worth.Some money from holiday giving is used for winter relief, an operation that helps needy families pay their utility bills throughout the year, and to supply warm clothing and blankets to the homeless.The Census Bureau estimates that 2,123 people are homeless at any given time in Tarrant County. A person is considered homeless when they reside in a place not meant for human habitation, such as cars, parks, sidewalks and abandoned property. Other people counted as homeless are those who have come to shelters to get off the street.For people who don't have time to volunteer, donations of money, food, clothing and prayers are needed desperately. No matter how the unfortunates ended up in their dire situations, a little taste of hope can bring joy to a weary heart.As I rang that bell on an unseasonably warm recent December day at a Walgreens in south Fort Worth, I lost count of the stories told by people whose employment opportunities had taken a sharp downturn.I dare not attempt to count the folks who tearfully dropped only pennies into the kettle, understanding the significance of giving whatever you can and how those few cents can begin to build hope.With hope you can accomplish just about anything.Nadolyn Redmond Jones of Fort Worth is a member of the 2012 Star-Telegram Community Columnist Panel. jones5242010-nadolyn@yahoo.comHave more to add? News tip? Tell us
