Charities at christmas. Emotional blackmail? criminals peddling guilt for cash they will mostly keep?

Answer 1

You know, sometimes it does feel like emotional blackmail to me. There have been times I have been able to give freely to charities during the holiday season. There have also been times where I haven't, due to finances.

My point is, we all usually know how and where to give to charity - we really don't need any "help" in doing that. But, it's gotten to the point where even the grocery checkers will ask if you want to give a donation by just adding a given amount to your grocery bill. I'm sorry, but I think that's pushing the charity thing a bit.

As far as the homeless asking for money, it depends on the situation as to whether I give or not. I used to "worry" about whether they were going to use it for an honest reason (to buy a meal vs. buying liquor or something), but then I just decided that if their use of my donation is less than honorable, karma would take care of it.

Answer 2

I don't mind the asking for charities at Christmas but I hate to see that none of it is coordinated, i.e., angel tree gifts for kids. People only have so much money to give to charity and when they are bombarded with request after request, they withdraw all donations. That includes the bell rings at the store entrances.

The best donation is directly to the charity itself but remember just because it is "non profit" does not mean they don't make huge salaries for helping others.

Answer 3

I see more homeless people dragging around cardboard boxes downtown at thanksgiving and christmas than any other days of the year.