Money from the CARES Act is starting to appear in bank accounts. Some of you will see the money as a nice bonus. Others need that money–and more–to keep their homes, pay their bills, and feed their children.
A Community of Support
Lodi has a long and strong history of supporting those in need. Through our churches, our community groups, and our businesses, we do amazing things to help those who need it. Most of us understand what it’s like to struggle from time to time, and none of us look down on those who ask for assistance.
If someone asks for help, it’s because they need it. And we give that help because it’s the right thing to do.
A Community in Need
The situation our community is going through is one we haven’t faced in a century. Our neighbors want to work, our business want to be open. But in order to protect our neighbors, our friends, our families… many of us can’t work.
Suppose my neighbor’s home catches fire, and I have a length of garden hose four or five hundred feet away. If he can take my garden hose and connect it up with his hydrant, I may help him to put out his fire…I don’t say to him before that operation, “Neighbor, my garden hose cost me $15; you have to pay me $15 for it.”… I don’t want $15–I want my garden hose back after the fire is over.
–FDR
Our house is on fire. Our neighbors need help. We are being given a “garden hose”.
You can use it to water your flowers, or you can give it to your neighbor to put out their fire.
Reach Out
The Lodi Valley Chronicle and Wisconsin River Bank have partnered to create a fund dedicated to helping Reach Out Lodi.
When you get that money from the government, ask yourself this: Do I need all of this? Or can I spare some for my neighbors who need it more?
No one is asking you to donate the entire check (though if you’re willing, it will gladly be accepted). But anything you can spare will be put to good use. This money will provide food, clothing, and needed items for hygiene and basic health-care–from toothpaste to tampons.
Every dollar you give helps. Every dollar you give means a neighbor can feed their family, dress their children, and participate in our community as equals.
To donate, simply write a check to Reach Out Lodi and drop it off at Wisconsin River Bank.
Editor-in-Chief
A Lodi native, Blaze attended the University of Wisconsin, Green Bay where he graduated with a degree in theatre technology & design. He has traveled extensively throughout the United States and the world–including a 6-year stint in China. He has been a teacher, a writer, a designer, and is the founder of the Redleaf Consulting Group.
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