Today is Blog Action Day where bloggers get together to spread awareness about poverty, to inspire action, and to encourage everyone to get involved in making a difference.
Here are some statistics that are unacceptable in world where there is so much wealth:
• 1/3 of the world’s people, three billion live on less than $2.50 a day
• 80% of humanity live on less than $10 a day
• 29,000 – 30,000 children die each day due to poverty
• 72 million children in the developing world are not in school, 57% are girls
• One billion people entered the 21st Century unable to read or sign their names
• Less than 1% of what the world spends are weapons each year would make it possible for every child to be educated
• 2 out of 3 people lack access to clean water
These are just a few numbers of the many that would tell us clearly that poverty is a problem, which we must solve. The amount of human suffering is clearly pointed out in the above stats.
America is a rich and prosperous nation even if we are having some challenging times. These difficulties don’t add up to much if we consider the lives of so many who have no money, no food, no education, and not even clean water to drink. This is unacceptable for all of us who have compassion for our fellow human beings.
What can we do? We live in a time where information is readily available. There are many NGO’s set up to help with the less fortunate. Start by going on the web and search for one of these important issues: hunger, education, water, poverty, or others and find out who is doing something to help. See what is needed and get involved.
In every community there are people who go hungry, start by helping them. There are reading and tutoring programs that need people today. Schools need books in many countries. There is low cost water treatment technology that can be purchased and sent to places so people can have water to drink.
You are needed. Whatever touches your heart the most as far as helping others, pursue that and give of your time and/or resources. There are always great rewards for giving. Giving always makes you feel good. Find out your interests and where you are needed and get involved today.