I'm like totally on board with the idea of people coming together to help those in need during Christmas

... but at the same time, isn't it kinda weird that we're always expecting others to do the legwork and stuff? Like, can't some people just take care of themselves for once?
But wait, that's not true - I remember last year when my neighbor was going through a tough spot and our whole community stepped in to help. It was actually really beautiful

... but then again, wasn't it kinda condescending to imply that they needed us so much?
Anyway, the Community Fridges are pretty cool, I guess... who doesn't love being able to take some free food whenever? But seriously, how do we know that all the donated goods aren't just getting hoarded by a few people and not actually making it to those in need?
Oh, and I'm so down for supporting organizations like St. Francis Inn and Lutheran Settlement House... they're doing some amazing work

... but isn't it a bit patronizing when we call them "institutions" and imply that their job is just to help people in need? Shouldn't we be empowering individuals to take control of their own lives instead of relying on these organizations all the time?
