The festivity of winter holidays is almost here, crowded for most of us with jollity and warm feelings. Many members of our Central Texas community, however, face a bleaker picture – the loneliness and deprivation that so often comes with HIV disease and AIDS. But Holiday Helpers at AIDS Services of Austin (ASA) offers an opportunity to touch the life of a person or family and bring a bit of holiday cheer to someone who, without your involvement, might not have a lot to be cheerful about.
HIV and AIDS truly strikes people from all walks of life, whether white, black, brown or yellow. ASA’s clients include everyone from little children up through age 94, and all could use some cheerful support during the coming season. Opportunities are as varied as the individuals in need – and as those volunteering. For some home-bound folks, a friendly phone call now and a plate of fresh cookies may be sufficient. For some, especially families stricken by AIDS, the needs may be greater. Assistance with holiday gifts – clothes and toys – or even with basic pantry needs or a holiday meal would be welcome.
Our Holiday Helpers are people who can find a little time and the
resources to help. They may be individuals, a family, or a group from
neighborhood, church or work. Holiday-adopting as a group even adds to the shared joy, while spreading the effort.
Don’t have any time to spare at all? Small (or large!) cash donations for holiday assistance are particularly helpful now in supplying the essentials in people’s lives.
If you or your friends, co-workers and congregation members are interested in being Holiday Helpers for those in Austin suffering with HIV and AIDS, please call 406-6111. It is truly an opportunity to bring greater meaning to winter’s festive season.
This article appears in December 15 • 2000.