HAZARD, Ky. – The National Day of Giving, commonly known as “Giving Tuesday,” takes place on the first Tuesday following Thanksgiving and was established in 2012. This special day aims to inspire acts of kindness and generosity among people worldwide, including those in the Appalachian mountains.
In Hazard, local nonprofit organizations are harnessing the spirit of Giving Tuesday to support their essential work. Mindy Miller, the Director of Development and Communications for Housing Development Alliance (HDA), emphasized the significance of this day for fundraising efforts. As a nonprofit, HDA relies on grants and donations to fund their projects, making this day crucial for their operations.
Currently, HDA is focused on rebuilding homes lost to flooding that occurred two years ago, completing 31 out of an estimated 500 homes that were affected. The donations received from Giving Tuesday directly contribute to purchasing materials such as nails, shingles, and flooring, thereby making a tangible impact in the community. “Your money goes to working immediately,” Miller noted, highlighting the efficiency of donations in daily construction efforts.
The Salvation Army in Middlesboro is also celebrating this day, aiming to redirect the focus of the holiday season back to its true spirit. Carrie McCall, Corps Officer for the Salvation Army, shared that their organization provides essential services, such as meals for the homeless four days a week, utility and rent assistance, and a daily food pantry.
Importantly, the Salvation Army is funded solely through individual donations, without government support, underscoring the importance of community contributions. McCall’s fundraising goal for the season is set at $100,000, while HDA initially aimed for $1,500 but has successfully exceeded that goal by raising $1,680 by the evening of Giving Tuesday.
Both McCall and Miller stressed the importance of every single donation, stating that each contribution plays a crucial role in enhancing community support.
This hopeful narrative illustrates how local efforts and generosity during Giving Tuesday can profoundly impact communities in need, emphasizing the power of kindness during the holiday season.
To learn more about how you can donate or assist the Salvation Army or HDA, visit their respective links.