Smile for Charity!
During the COVID-19 pandemic, families around the world need help more than ever. The homeless are starving every day and are at a high risk of getting infected. Low-income families across the country cannot afford to buy overpriced groceries, and others fear going out and risking their own health and their families’. This is no longer an issue for a minority of America’s population; thirty-three million Americans are currently unemployed.
In order to provide relief for people in these situations, a non-profit organization called SMILE for Charity is helping out communities to the best of their ability. Prior to the coronavirus outbreak in the United States, the organization helped over 200 families a month, and that number has grown to roughly 1,600 families per month since then. Governor Murphy has specifically thanked SMILE for Charity for their contributions during these difficult times.
Their vision is to create a faith-inspired community that works together to eliminate poverty, restore dignity, and promote social justice in America. Although the founder of this charity, Salim Patel, is Muslim, the organization serves people of all races, religions, and ethnicity.
During this crucial time, SMILE is collecting for a food pantry. They are delivering donated supplies to those most severely affected by COVID-19. They are offering a no-contact drop-off and pick-up system for anyone in need. SMILE is also raising funds to support medical workers on the front lines. They are trying to help supply health care workers with more resources, such as N-95 and triple layer masks. They are also delivering hot meals to front-line emergency health care responders and senior citizens.
The question is: what can we do to help? There are many things that we can do to help others during this critical time. First, we can help by donating to their food pantry using the no-contact drop-off method. Second, for only $5 we can help to provide a hot meal to lift the spirits of front-line responders. Third, we can help provide personal protection equipment to all those working in health care or non-work from home jobs by making masks or donating to the organization. Lastly, we can volunteer either in person or behind the scenes, by acting as a conversation partner or a volunteer interpreter.
At home, many of us are making frequent online purchases through Amazon. Now, we can turn our Amazon purchases into a force of goodness. With every item you purchase, some of the money will go to other charities through AmazonSMILE. All you have to do is go to AmazonSmile.com, select the charity of your choice, and make your regular purchases. Not only are you getting the items you want, but you are also helping those less-fortunate than you.
But the most simple form of charity that you can participate in is to simply smile at the people around you. Spread love and kindness with a simple smile that will light up someone’s day.
If you want to make a difference and help out during the pandemic, then refer to the information below to contribute!
AmazonSmile.com -- (purchase any item you like and donate to a charity of your choice!)
Address: 39 HOOVER AVENUE PASSAIC, NJ 07055
Email: INFO@SMILEFORCHARITY.ORG
Phone: (973)440-9360