How Holiday Generosity Highlights African American Giving

As the year draws to a close, displays of generosity are as visible as other signs of the Holiday Season. Amid the ornaments and decorations, you will find Black Americans donating to others, ranging from the collective efforts of the Salvation Army’s annual bell ringing campaign to organized church ministries to individual outreach that is often spontaneous. Overall, 62% of Americans plan to donate in November or December while 15% of adults give to charity only during those two months.

In Little Rock, Arkansas, a heartwarming demonstration of philanthropy unfolded recently in a parking lot.

Jessie, who declined to give his last name, found himself on the receiving end of an unexpected gift.

“I’ve been seeing him up here every day, and he sits right here, and he doesn’t ask anybody for anything,” Sandra, who asked to remain anonymous, explained. “One particular day he was really, really hungry.”

Jessie nodded and added, “I was starving, and it was cold. The Holidays are coming up, and I don’t have any family.” 

Sandra immediately changed her plans and invited Jessie to follow her on his bicycle to a nearby restaurant where he ordered food. 

“At the restaurant, I heard the lady say, ‘That’ll be $82.00,'” Jessie recalled. “Sandra said, ‘That’s all you want to eat?'”

Jessie picked up the story from there. 

“She paid for the food. And before she left, she also gave me $60.00.”

Sandra and Jessie embraced as they shared memories of that day. She pointed heavenward with tears in her eyes.

In towns and cities around the country this Holiday Season, there will be many examples of neighbor helping neighbor. Most will remain unknown, but they are impactful and underscore the powerful legacy of Black Americans helping others in need. 

Formal organizations like GiveButter identify national efforts to uplift and assist through year-round campaigns sponsored by non-profits. August has been designated as Black Philanthropy Month, but the giving nature of Black Americans is not limited to one month. Ask Jessie and the millions of others sustained by kind hearted strangers and friends.