Janna Reimer wonders why the Star Cinema can raise $158,000, while the food bank cannot. (PNR, Jan. 2). The answer is, they are different.
When I contribute to the Star Cinema, (or Knowledge, or PBS for that matter), I expect to get unique entertainment or information in return. I do not make a contribution, I make an investment in future programs.
When I contribute to the food bank, I get nothing back, except perhaps satisfaction for ‘helping the poor’.
It is called charity.
With the food bank I am never sure what efforts they make to see that my money is properly spent.
When something is free, there are always lots of people around who will abuse it, and the food bank is no exception.
I don’t recall ever seeing anything put out by the food bank to describe the criteria and methods it uses to ensure my contribution goes only to the people who need it.
The other day I saw a beggar, in Sidney of all places, who had his cup at his feet and a cigarette hanging from his lips. Would my coin help feed his body or his tobacco habit? How many people use the food bank to save enough to buy smokes or booze?
If the food bank needs more, it would be a good promotion to show how they ensure the donations are well used. Until then I will give to the Sally Anne.
Fred Langford
Sidney