I should also note that my husband and I make it a point to explain to our kids that they should be grateful for the things they have and are able to do. They are very aware that there are a lot of less fortunate folks out there right now, and they are generous kids (have donated some of their own money from birthdays/allowances/garage sale to needy folks, have helped pick out food and toys to donate to drives, etc.).

(We aren’t wealthy by any means – in any other economy, we’d barely be middle class. But we do have stability, which we are thankful for.)

I still like to be able to do “fun” things with them, like Children’s Wonderland, so that they can see that hard work and good behavior can have rewards. But they are well-aware that those “extras” are things that should be appreciated.

There is a lot my family can’t afford but I don’t begrudge those who have more, we can continue to remember that there are those who don’t have as much and I wish we as a community did more, but there are those who give as much as they can.

I’m however waiting to see if the machines that make the wax figures are going to be there…

We’ve done away with any “big” events from our family budget, to focus on having more frequent, less expensive local outings. $5 a person really isn’t bad for a family outing. No, not everyone can afford it. But not everyone can afford a trip to Disneyland or Cedar Point either – are we saying those places shouldn’t be open?

I volunteer to help a variety of local organizations throughout the year, plus donate items and (occasionally) cash as well. This year for Christmas, I’ve already contributed to multiple toy drives (one at my work, each of my kids classes have held a drive, plus I always donate items to Toys for Tots). Donated last years like-new winter coats and boots (that no longer fit) to a winter clothing drive, etc.

So, I won’t feel guilty for spending $20 to keep up our annual family holiday outing to Children’s Wonderland. (And I have also inquired about volunteering to staff it as well, just don’t know what days/times I’ll be needed yet.)

If the space has been donated by someone who is already paying rent to the city, if the event is being staffed by volunteers, and if no additional money is being spent on decorations (which I presume are already owned/paid for), then I have a hard time seeing why anyone would have a big problem with it.

We can’t take away all of the fun and tradition around here. (Though obviously I understand scaling back and making cuts along the way, especially if public money is involved.)

http://www.mobilemeals.org/home_delivered_meals.htm

For the elderly and disabled, “meals on wheels” always is a great service….Also, I know area churches and community centers distribute food each week…

Nothing is Hopeless. However, we can always find a way to help those less fortunate instead of our negative energy towards issues!

There are a lot more people seeking help, but it’s not completely hopeless.

That is what some of the residents I
was referring to that I mentioned.

Some of the other places that I was aware of want to charge a delivery fee
according to each indivdual’s income
qualification.

If there are others and can learn about them I will surely pass it on
to those in need.

Services like 211 have a list so anyone who does need help should be encouraged to call them.