We’ve all seen the reports of the destruction and suffering going on in Haiti over the past week, and a lot of us are asking “how can I help?" Last night our High School Youth Group decided this is one way we can all get involved!
Here’s the deal. This Friday, January 22nd, we’re inviting you to fast – to go without food – for one meal, two meals, or even three, and then donate the money you would have spent on food (we’re guessing around $5.00/meal) to Catholic Relief Services, an organization that is on the ground right now helping the people of Haiti recover and rebuild.
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Q&A
What is Fasting? Fasting is literally the practice of voluntarily going without food for a certain period of time.
Why do people Fast? Fasting is a part of the Christian tradition. There are a bunch of examples of people fasting in the Bible. When we go without a meal it forces us to break out of our normal routine and remind ourselves that the world is bigger than ourselves and our problems. It is also a way we can be in solidarity with people who go without food every day because of poverty and famine. We can’t physically go to Haiti to help out, but by giving up a meal or three this Friday we can do two practical things. We can remind ourselves that there are people every day who don’t get to eat because they don’t have access to food, AND, by donating the money we would have spent on food, we can help people who are on the ground in Haiti.
Caution – people who have certain medical conditions (diabetes, severe anemia, etc…) should NOT fast without a doctor’s advice. If you’re not able to join in the fast but you’d still like to make a donation that would be great.
How is this going to work? On Friday, January 22nd, commit to going without food for one, two or even three meals. Then take the money you would have spent on food (we’re suggesting a minimum donation of $5/meal) and donate it to Catholic Relief Services (CRS), or the charity of your choice. If you want, you can get your money to any member of our youth group and we will make sure it gets to CRS. All the money turned in during High School Youth Group this Sunday (January 24) will be sent directly to Catholic Relief Services.
How can I help? First – commit to joining in the fast. Second – spread the word. Invite your Facebook friends, send an email or a text message, or just tell the people in your life what’s going on. The more people we can get involved the more good we can do for people who really need our help!
Other Questions – talk to one of the admins or email cweber@mccym.net
Donate Directly:
Catholic Relief Services
American Red Cross
For even more information check out www.fastforhaiti.com!