Going out is Easy...Knowing Where is Not!

A Season of Giving

The Charlotte area has many different charities that need donations of money, goods and time. Although these charities need help all year long, they seem to get the most attention during the Christmas season. If you are looking for a charity in the Charlotte area to help out, here are some that hold a special place in my own heart. Not only do they do a wonderful job at helping needy people in the community, they are a source of inspiration and hope in the Charlotte area.

 

Crisis Assistance Ministry. This ministry began in 1975 and helps low income people who are struggling to meet their basic needs. Their Emergency Financial Assistance Programs helps people with their rent or utility costs and their Free Store provides clothing, household items, furniture and appliances. As someone who used to volunteer as a crisis counselor with the ministry, I can attest to the wonderful work that they do in helping needy people in the community.

Angel House Maternity Home. Angel House Maternity Home provides housing, care, support and guidance to displaced pregnant adolescent and adult women. The home helps to prepare the women to become self-sufficient so that they will be prepared to become parents. It also helps them to explore alternative solutions. Pregnant women are one of the fastest growing segments of the homeless population, and Angel House provides a safe alternative for these women during their pregnancy as they take advantage of the many resources available to them.

Having known several women who have been clients in the home, I can say that it has been so wonderful to see them turn their lives around. While in the home, they go to school or work. They receive counseling and case management help. They go to parenting classes, and some of the clients opt to place their babies for adoption. Angel House supports them in whatever their decision is. For a list of suggested donations, look at their website.

Charlotte Rescue Mission/Dove’s Nest Women’s Program. The Dove’s Nest, which is a part of Charlotte Rescue Mission is a program which is in great need of expansion. Since opening its doors in 1992, the 22 bed residential program provides care and counseling to women who are struggling with addictions. The Christian environment focuses on spiritual, physical, psychological and social recovery. There is currently a 6 month waiting list to get into the 120 day program. A Dove’s Nest Capital Campaign in progress that is focused on expanding the home to a 90 bed facility.

A Child’s Place. With approximately 3,000 homeless children enrolled in Charlotte Mecklenburg schools, A Child’s Place provides a rich source of support and care for these children and their families. Through education, support and family advocacy, A Child’s Place helps to ensure that these children will not be left behind in they school system. There are many opportunities to help, whether through donations or through volunteering.

Charlotte Shelter for Battered Women. The Shelter for Battered Women provides safe housing, counseling and support for women and children who are in danger of being harmed by the woman’s intimate partner. The shelter provides information, resources and links to other agencies to help them as they are transitioning away from their dangerous situation.

Courtesy of Cheryl Williams