Stronger Together

Wiped out by disaster,

Every dream reduced to cinders and ashes.

~ ~ ~

Surveying what remains, a

Thousand tears, reality crashes

As deep fears are realised.

Never will it be the same again

Dear mementos and photos lost.

~ ~ ~

Whole lives immersed in pain.

If only.... what if... how can...?

The lack of security

Holds lives to ransom.

~ ~ ~

Yet, through all of the uncertainty,

Over land and oceans,

Undeterred, we stand with you.

Long after the cameras are gone and a new article captures our attention, those who have experienced devastation and disaster will be picking up the pieces of their lives.

While we won’t be there every step of the way, we can be there now.

As anyone who has ever done some fund-raising knows, getting people to give is hard work.

That is in no way a criticism of anyone. More often than not, the people who can least afford it are the ones who give more often. But it is an individual’s right to choose who they support, how and when.

In the current financial climate, I would not hold it against the average person for not giving financial donations.

But there are more was to support.

• Share links on social media

• If you are donating money or items or sharing links, make sure whom ever is accepting the donations is trust worthy. Sadly, there are people out there who will attempt to profit from someone else’s misfortune. Check that the charity has been long established and is well known. Check that any websites are official.

• Raise awareness. For example, during times of disaster, Domestic and Family Violence and suicide rates increase exponentially. Be an advocate for speaking up, share links to help services or the signs to look out for in people who may be experiencing these issues.
• Not really into people and would prefer to help the animals effected? No judgment! Honestly, I know some people who are really lovely but wouldn't give the shirt off their back to a person, but wrap up an injured animal in it. There are charities collecting to assist injured and displaced animals and wildlife.

If you would like to help, there are lots of ways to do it. A number of Vocal Creators are doing what they can to show support for the victims of the disaster in Hawaii. I have included a link to C. H. Richard's poem at the bottom as well as some links to some charities recommended for supporting the relief efforts. *I do encourage you to investigate the options yourself before making a decision about making any donations.*

My aim is to raise awareness of what we can do as individuals and collectively. I have donated to an official charity I am familiar with. I encourage you to find a way to support that works for you.

Remember: we are stronger when we stand together.