Who says Charity belongs only to the Rich?

Chinese New Year is coming, ang baos (i.e. red packets with money) are also coming. Lets slow down a little and count our blessings by looking to share with the less fortunate people around us. If you are someone who isn't that rich, it is always hard to donate a pile of hundred dollar notes for charity. Being a member of the charity sub-committee in my company, I believe that all people no matter how rich or how poor, can always help to make a difference to those in need. In this post, I will be listing a few suggestions on how the Not-so-Rich can do their part for charity. Feel free to add more suggestions if I have missed out any. Thanks.

• Money is not all that can be given. Sometimes time can even be more precious. Suppose if you are a student or just recently graduated, I know that you will be a little tight in your wallet. But the fact that you are having more time in your hands now than you will ever have again in life, gives you the pole position to experience the happiness of giving which most working people do not get to experience. Several opportunities are available right around the campus e.g. helpline, flag days, rides for the needy, etc.
• Blood donation. Nobody says that charity need to be in the form of money. Your blood can actually save lives! Blood donation drives / campaigns are always there for the whole year round. If you are a healthy person, donating blood is definitely more meaningful than donating money.
• Donate your clothes and items for charity sale. The money earned from these sales can be used to provide funds for the needy. If you have an apparel which you is either out of fashion or you seldom wear it, consider donating them to charity for a good cause.
• Minor contributions from your paycheck. Many companies offer paycheck deductions for charity purposes. Look if the place you work offers this. If the charity cause aligns with your interest, you could indicate a fix amount to be deducted from your paycheck. The deduction may be a small figure, but to someone, somewhere, it will make a world of difference to them.
• Go for the Half-Marathon runs. Every year, there is bound to be a few charitable marathons or half-marathons held for terminal diseases such as cancer, heart disease, etc. These patients need a huge amount of money for treatment and some could not even afford the full treatment. This kind of runs is a win-win situation for everyone. You get to exercise and keep yourself fit, and at the same time, help these patients on their medical fees. If you are interested, look out for your local newspapers for the run ads or check your company if they sponsor such events. I'm glad my company did. :)