"On Friday morning in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, a groundhog named Phil emerged from his hole and saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter."
Thankfully, we have had a mild winter- only a few storms and cold spells that vanish within a few days. The worst that has happened is a few very high utility bills for some.
The first time I ever visited Romania ( or flew in a plane, or went overseas- several firsts!) was in January 1992. Brasov, Romania is ringed by the Carpathian Alps, leading to very cold and very snowy winters. Perfect if you love to ski. Not so much if you are poor and have a wood stove for heat. We stayed in a building that had ceramic gas heaters that kept the room above freezing but provided little comfort.
For many poor families in Eastern Europe, winter is a very real struggle for survival. Heavy snow can make roads impassable- essentially cutting off families and villages from the outside world for days. Mission Without Borders coordinates Operation Winter Rescue during this coldest time of the year to provide warm clothes, firewood, and essential supplies to the poorest of families. Even in Albania, it was so very cold last year when I visited. The poorest always suffer the most but did you know that-
$25 can provide a child with a pair of warm winter boots.
$50 can give a family firewood for a month.
$100 can provide a family with warm clothing.
$300 can keep a family warm for the entire Winter!
A donation of any amount helps. 88% of the monies raised go directly to help needy families! I visited sponsored families and talked with the Mission Without Borders staff last year. I've seen the warm coats delivered to a young woman who did not have one. A little goes a long way. Won't you help meet the immediate needs of the poor in Eastern Europe?
You can make a secure donation of any amount at the MWB website.
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