Real Generosity toward the future lies in giving all to the present." Albert Camus

Homelessness is expected to rise, according to the 2021 predictions and 2020 data finds older women to be a growing figure in that predicition. When it comes to living in poverty in Australia, women and children are usually the hardest hit. This great Women's Agenda article sums up the alarming issue. "It’s no accident these voices were mainly women, because, like violence, poverty in Australia is gendered. While poverty affects far too many of us in this, one of the wealthiest countries in the world, women are more likely to live in poverty." Almost a million children go hungry according to Foodbank's figures. When you look at the poverty figures, it appears 10% of Australians are living in povery. How can this be? 

While nothing will change if we as voters don't insist on better policies, one small way is to donate to charities who are picking up the slack where the government fails.

One of my favourites each year is Share the Dignity's #Itsinthebag campaign.  Bunnings is taking the donations from the 15th  November to the1st December. You can donate for Women, Teens, Mother & Baby and Transmen or Nonbinary people. Allocate your bag with the appropriate ribbon (or tag). Guidelines of what to include, and what you can't, are here. If you don't have time to make a bag yourself, you can also just sponsor a bag.

And opposite of fight club, note point 4 from the Share the Dignity webpage:

How do you donate your bags?

1. Find a good condition or new bag to fill (e.g. handbag, backpack or duffel)
2. Fill the bag with essential items (listed below)
3. You can then add in some extra special additions and a handwritten note
4. Tell your friends about #ItsInTheBag
5. Take to any Bunnings across Australia for collection between 19-28 November 2021

Feel warm and fuzzy for making someone feel special at Christmas!

If you don't have to worry about affording your sanitary items each month, consider making it easier at least this Christmas for those that do.

A rising tide lifts all boats, and it starts with you.

Share the dignity website. 

Linking with #InspireMeMonday