We are full swing into the holiday season, a time where we reach deep into our pockets to give to those in need, and less fortunate than ourselves. As I was preparing for my own end of year gifts, I came upon some stats that correlate with holiday giving: (Source: Network for Good)
- 30 to 40 percent of one’s annual donations occur the last few weeks of the year.
- 22 percent of all giving happens on December 30-31.
- Giving spikes between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on December 31.
Although making a tax-deductible donation to a charity, yes, offers you a benefit, it also symbolizes your willingness to lend a helping hand to causes near and dear to your heart.
So, as you take time to show thanks for what you have this year, here’s a snapshot of how your hard-earned dollars benefit Hope for Hearts.
1) On average, 200 girls a year receive a hand-up, not a handout. The rules are stringent at St. Elizabeth Girl’s Academy (SEGA), but the life lessons are forever.
2) Girls attending the academy are there because they want a better life for themselves like graduate, Ayeni Grace: “I cannot forget to thank St. Elizabeth Girls Home which found me helpless and rescued me from the street, and gave me a new life; a promising future. I also thank whoever is supporting St. Elizabeth.”
3) SEGA’s program teaches girls life-skills, along with a life-trade so they can support themselves upon graduation like Nassonko Kirabo Annet who found a passion for the hospitality industry and works as a caterer at Best Hotel Busega.
Your tax-deductible gift offers more than just a band-aid. It gives girls an education and a self-sufficient life beyond the orphanage. I know my first year-end check said Hope for Hearts, and with confidence I smiled knowing the funds will help build up girls and create more productive souls in our global society.
Peace and Love,
Cristen
