As I tended the FAF tent Saturday at the Eastown Street Fair, I was yelled at by a drunk,  "You making a lot of money?"  I nodded--although it was hardly a lot of money.  "Why you doing that?  I need money.  Look I have no teeth."  His rant went on.   There was no time for me to respond.  "You should help me.  Can't get a woman without theeth.  Don't send money to them.  Send it to me.  The government doesn't help."  And off he went.

Well, I agreed with him to a point, but he turned tail and left me thinking,  "What am I doing?"  The truth be told, I give him money in taxes, in donations at church, and in the many local nonprofits I support.  I even know a group that provides health care to people who do not have insurance.  He can't see those private things I do, nor did he stick around long enough for me to point him to a free dental clinic.

Many of my freinds here in Grand RApids are devoted to local charities, and local charities only.  They share the feelings of the man,  "Help US!"  Is FAF being selfish helping women and children in Africa?  With our stuggling Michigan economy, do my friends see the needs in Michigan for employment, education and health care looming so high that there is no way to see world needs?

Ironically, help is coming to us from abroad.  Last week I met Kyung Za Yim, woman from Korea whose high school was supported by Americans.  She now works here as President of a national organization raising funds for schools and hospitals throughout the world.  I know of two young Germans working as volunteers at a community center in Grand Rapids.  Can FAF fit into this circle of caring and support?

What is your take on this situation?  I will print your responses. 

Laura Salazar, September 28, 2007