Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, celebrates the miracle of a tiny jug of oil that sustained a community for eight days. Community values are at the core of Kwanzaa, as many black Americans bring the miracle of sustenance from an African harvest to bear on their lives. And this year, these festivities coincide with the lunar month of Ramadan, during which Muslims recall the miraculous first recitation of the Kor'an. So, as we recover from the holiday bustle and settle into the last week of the year, take a moment to consider the season's meaning. Calling upon local businesses and individuals to share their good fortune, Spirit of Sharing donates food and toys to help folks who otherwise might not be able to fully enjoy the holidays.
Volunteers can donate funds or adopt anonymous recipients and target their specific needs.
According to program coordinator Theresa Smith, this year Spirit of Sharing will provide gifts of toys to more than 750 children, and food boxes to 450 families, throughout Bennington, North Bennington, Pownal, Shaftsbury and Woodford. Smith added that approximately 80 percent of donated funds go toward the purchase of food. MAU s student assistance counselor, Dan Lucy, said that students develop a lifetime of giving through programs such as Spirit of Sharing. Last year our group decided they d help two families, said Lucy. And they got so much out of it that they came back and asked for two more families.