Personalize Your Contribution to the People of Haiti

The devastation is rampant and tragic. We have all shuddered at the sight of countless children and adults seeking safety and shelter following a catastrophe beyond our worst nightmares. For those of us who want to help but feel that cash contributions are insufficient, I offer a few suggestions.

Define your contribution according to your passions. If, for example, you are someone who finds joy and gratification in the kitchen, make your contribution one of food. Make a visit to your local supermarket or outlet and purchase non-perishable, easily transported food items and identify a charity such as Habitat for Humanity that is dropping food in Haiti. If you have children, be sure to take them with you and let them choose their contributions. This will become more than a simple act - it will be a life lesson of substantial significance.

If fashion is your passion, clean out your closet or visit a thrift store or Goodwill store. Donate clothes that are sturdy, warm and serviceable. Again, any number of organizations are collecting useful items to send to Haiti and they will be welcome.

Finally, if your lifestyle is one of service to others, convert that time and energy to serve those who need you most. I've seen a number of programs on the internet that illustrate this type of public service. One of these was a lady who collected thousands of pairs of shoes but any variation on this theme is good. Collect children's clothes by visiting schools, children's centers or thrift stores. Organize a bake sale, book sale, garage sale or any other type of fund-raising event. Listen to your heart and it should be very simple to determine what sort of contribution is best for you.

Acts of kindness have unlimited definitions. Now is the time to act, when help is needed urgently.