Being charitable is a noble endeavour.
However, at times things happen that can make even the most generous among us choose to tightly seal our purse strings.
One such example is the recent theft of more than $100 from the Ongoing Garage Sale Store, money that was being collected for the benefit of the Westlock Food Bank.
It’s truly a despicable act to commit a theft in the first place, but to steal from those who most need the generosity of others is beyond the pale.
As store owner Crystal Massia said, it would have been less of an insult to all that is good and respectful had the thief or thieves stolen the product she had on display.
Instead, it was a jar of change destined for the food bank that was the ultimate victim, being smashed and emptied by at least one individual who really should have known better.
If donations are being targeted as a way to make, or rather steal, a quick buck, no one could be faulted for not wanting to continue being charitable.
And this theft from Massia’s store isn’t the only example of unacceptable bahaviour having a negative impact on charitable causes.
Also in the news is the decision from Santa’s Anonymous to clamp down on abuse in light of some people receiving food hampers and toys they were not entitled to.
It should go without saying, but it likely bears repeating that Christmas is a time for giving.
To be taking more than is your fair share is simply not what the season is meant for.
And more to the point, the actions of a few less-than-savoury characters is going to impose a mostly needless burden on people who are simply trying to help others.
And it’s going to possibly result in some people who genuinely need the help not seeking it because they don’t want to jump through the now-necessary hoops.
Now, for those generous folks who have supported charities their whole lives, don’t stop.
Yes, there have been some bad things that have happened, but those are by and large isolated incidents and don’t represent the community as a whole.
It’s tragic they happened, and have resulted in some negative publicity. But we mustn’t let some bad apples spoil the good we have going on here.
