ECHO is an acronym that stands for "Emergency Care Help Organization." It operates in my home town and serves the needs of thousands of people who have encountered an unexpected emergency (Flood, theft, home loss or destruction... whatever has happened). "Since its inception in 1987, ECHO FL has assisted over 109,000 individuals, over half of whom were children, with the basic life necessities."
Their mission: The mission statement on their website is "To continue serving people in need of food, clothing and small household items in times of an emergency." They come alongside families who are in sudden need, and they also have homelessness assistance for those with long term needs.
What you can do: ECHO accepts monetary donations as well as food and material donations. You can also volunteer your time to their ECHO center. You can volunteer as an individual or as part of a larger group organization like your church, youth group, or community center (If you are a high school student or are the parent of a high school student in this area, this is a good way to get community service hours.) Please consider this ministry as you are preparing for Christmas with your family this year. There are many who have lost their homes or incomes this year who could really use some Christmas cheer this season.
Their mission: According to their website, Heifer International's mission "is to work with communities to end hunger and poverty and care for the earth. [...] With gifts of livestock and training, Heifer projects help families improve their nutrition and generate income in sustainable ways. We refer to the animals as "living loans" because in exchange for their livestock and training, families agree to give one of its animal's offspring to another family in need. It's called Passing on the Gift – a cornerstone of our mission that creates an ever-expanding network of hope and peace." In countries where owning livestock can make the difference between life and death, the gift of an animal can make all the difference to a family in need.
What you can do: You can make a monetary donation, or give even more by hosting a fundraiser or otherwise advocating and raising awareness in your community. Giving livestock animals provides eggs, milk, and a means of income to families who need it. Their holiday gift catalog gives you many options for what to donate: heifers, llamas, chickens, clean water access, stoves, and a host of other necessities.
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