Remember this poem, Christmas is Coming -

Christmas is coming,
The goose is getting fat,
Please to put a penny in an old man’s hat.
If you haven’t got a penny,
A half-penny will do,
If you haven’t got a half-penny,
God bless you!

Christmas is coming and with many of the local charities in need of food and clothing for an increase in the number of families in need this holiday season, it is good to remember to carry some cash – even if all you have are pennies yourself – to put in the donation “hat” as you pass.

As I was entering the supermarket the other day to shop for Thanksgiving, I looked for a donation to give to the Salvation Army volunteer outside the entrance. Embarrassingly, I only had some change in my purse. I had just come from school and had only the checkbook with me. He graciously accepted my pennies and said, “God Bless You.” I have now purposely hidden some cash in my purse, so the next time I pass those collecting for families in need, I will be able to help. If we all just give, even our pennies, it will help someone in need.

Our class helped at the Food Bank of New Jersey a couple of weeks ago. From the Food Bank, for  just 16 cents, the Salvation Army and other charities can purchase 1 pound of food…for $1.60, they can purchase 10 pounds of food…for $16.00, 100 pounds…you get the point?  Our pennies do help.

As you pass, please to put a penny in the old man’s hat.

God bless you!