Bismillahi Rahmani Rahim<\/i><\/b>
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Salaam Alaikum wa Rahmatullah<\/i>
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I always like to be generous, and even though these are tight financial times I want to help my less fortunate neighbors. \u00a0There are always donation bins at the grocery store. \u00a0You can purchase a non-perishable item and toss it in the bin on the way out. \u00a0The item is then donated to a worthy cause.<\/p>\n
I never do that. \u00a0I\u2019m not stingy, but I found out that if I donate $1 to my local food pantry, it gives them the ability to purchase $8 worth of food and household items to give to the poor. \u00a0They have more buying power because of their relationships with grocery stores and wholesalers. \u00a0So why should I donate one can of corn, when by giving the money it would have cost to the food pantry, I can help someone have eight cans of corn?<\/p>\n
We have to be smart with our money. \u00a0Shop around to find the best bargain for clothing, food, housing, cars, all that. \u00a0And also shop around to find the best charity. \u00a0May charities have a lot of\u00a0administrative\u00a0expenses. \u00a0A relatively small portion of your donation actually goes to those in need. <\/p>\n
The American Institute on Philanthropy has a list of the top-rated charities. \u00a0Check them out. \u00a0And look around for local charities. \u00a0Remember \u201cthink globally, act locally\u201d? \u00a0Look to the people in your neighborhood, in your town, and be a part of your community and help where needed there. \u00a0That help might be money, or clothes, or time. \u00a0You don\u2019t have to be rich to help those in need.<\/p>\n
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