What Are You Doing To Help A Child?

I'm sure we were all amazed by the headlines this week, women rescued after being abducted in 2003. According to neighbors, in hindsight there were 'questionable' activities going on in the Castro house. Could the neighbors have done more to rescue these individuals sooner? We'll never know the answer to that question. All we can say is thank God they were rescued and are now reuniting with their families.

But I think this situation highlights something greater. That is, we all need to be vigilant and look out for one another, especially the most vulnerable in our society. No, we may not all be living next to a kidnapper, but we need to be more observant of those around us.

So you say, how can I do more to help a child? For those out there who may be a teacher, a volunteer our community activist, look for signs in the children around you. Do they seem withdrawn or under distress? If they've built a relationship with you, find an opportunity to talk to them. Find out if something is wrong and if you can help or advise the necessary authorities.

Teachers if a child is constantly absent from school or are withdrawn; you need to check on them. It could be a sign that something is going on in the home. There may not be a situation, but what if there is?

If you know of a family with children that are experiencing a difficult time lend your support to them. Maybe you can host a backyard picnic and invite the family over. Or maybe as you do your weekly grocery shopping you can pick up an extra bag of groceries for that family. If you don't know anyone directly in distress, contact a local family shelter and find out how you can donate.

As kids prepare for the summer holidays, offer to have these kids join your kids at their summer program. If you can, help a family prepare their kids for back to school.

Always look for opportunities to help someone else. You may think its a small act but it could make a world of difference in the life of a child and their family.

In closing, I leave you with this. Let's take care of each other. Some wise words once recorded are "God has no hands but our hands. He has no feet but our feet". Let's allow God to work through us!