On the campaign trail, Barack Obama accused Americans of not being charitable enough. Well, he was wrong.
As more Americans turn to charity amid worsening economic gloom, operators of food banks and other aid groups are relying on the surprisingly resilient generosity of their neighbors and finding that even when times are tough, people still give.
In Seattle, Boeing Co. (BA) employees tripled their cash donations this year to Northwest Harvest, operator of Washington’s largest food bank. And every week, Northwest Harvest spokeswoman Claire Acey says, companies call to say their employees have decided to skip their holiday party and buy food for the hungry instead.
Our synaogue food bank donations were higher than ever this year. I know I gave more than last year, and I gave a lot last year.
Greeves, of Harris Interactive, said that in a year when people are having trouble meeting basic needs, giving by individuals usually increases food, shelter and health care.
“If it makes them feel good and they feel like it’s making a difference, they’ll give money,” he said.
I don’t think it’s the “feel good” part that counts. I think the average American gives when she or he can when times are tough, because times are tough, and everyone can use a helping hand.
Obama means we’re not generous enough TO THE GOVERMENT. Which is, after all, the great Charity in the Sky that’s supposed to take care of everyone. Run by Democrat apparatchiks, of course.
Rambam (Maimonides) says that someone who gives as little as 5% is a rasha (wicked). He could not conceive of anyone (even the wicked) giving less than that. Compare it to what the liberal politicians give (based on the published tax returns during the campaign).
Rabbi Moshe Feinstein was often audited by the IRS because the computers kept flagging what was normal for him to give to Charity.