WASHINGTON, D.C. — For most folks across East Alabama, Thanksgiving is a time for family, reflection, and appreciation for the blessings we have been provided.It’s also a time to remember the poor among us, our friends and neighbors in need, and our responsibility to give back.
Alabamians are known to be generous people. According to some of the most recently made available data from the Catalogue for Philanthropy, a national organization that tracks charitable giving nationwide, Alabama in 2004 was ranked as the sixth most generous state in the union.
As we head towards this time of Thanksgiving, I wanted to highlight once again some folks across East Alabama who work, day in and day out, to care for those in need.
While I can’t possibly highlight every person or organization, I hope these examples will help remind us all to say our thanks for those who serve some of the most needy among us.
Please let me know of others you think folks should know about.
In Talladega County, for example, the Sylacauga Alliance for Family Enhancement recently celebrated their ten-year anniversary. SAFE is a local initiative that has helped vulnerable families in many ways, including literacy and employment programs.
In Chambers County, Hope’s Inn in LaFayette provides shelter for abused women and children who need a safe place to stay. This important organization helps give many women hope and a new start.
In Calhoun County, the Sarrell Dental Center has provided dental care to underprivileged children and adults in the area. Created three years ago, the center has four offices in East Alabama including Heflin, Anniston, Bessemer and Talladega.
In Montgomery County, the Central Alabama Opportunities Industrialization Center provides underprivileged Alabamians with training to help them find jobs and realize their value in this world.
In Tallapoosa County, Children’s Harbor serves as a place where disabled children and their families can vacation free of charge.
In Cleburne County, H.E.A.R.T.S. – (Helping Every Area Resident to Succeed) – is a local volunteer organization providing needy residents with anything from food and medication to school supplies.
In Cherokee County, the local Children’s Advocacy Center is an agency that provides support to help protect and counsel abused children. This organization does similar work across the state.
As we give thanks this year, let’s also remember to keep our troops overseas and their families here at home, in our prayers.
Many of these brave Americans will be away from their loved ones this Thanksgiving. Let us all say our thanks for these heroes who are serving our nation, and continue to pray for their safe return home.
I hope all of you in Calhoun County have a safe and blessed Thanksgiving.
Please contact me with your concerns at any of my district offices or at www.house.gov/mike-rogers.
