I learned, for the first time, of a unique charitable organization called Heifer International. Don’t start holding your breath for the punchline.
There isn’t one.
This organization really exists, and their mission, lofty: To end world hunger and poverty, and to promote caring for the earth.
To help achieve this mission, Heifer International has developed a list of “global initiatives” which, among other objectives, would help communities “preserve their ability to support themselves by protecting their land,water, and other natural resources,” and by “providing small loans to help people start and expand tiny business that yield big benefits for families.”
A large part of their “Agroecology” effort provides livestock to families and communities. The animals could then be used to provide milk, eggs, and other food staples for the benefit of the entire community. Recipients must promise to breed the animals and give away a percentage of offspring to another family or community in need. And so on.
So, as you prepare your grocery lists for the wonderful Thanksgiving Day dinners many of you may be planning (or attending), keep in mind that for less than the price of the side dishes, you can “teach a man to fish, and feed him for a lifetime.” And that is its own kind of thanksgiving.
