When you adopt a family, it's best to assume that they have nothing, and need everything. From toilet paper to jackets, and everything in between, they will be helped by any contribution. But in this day in age, and in America, how likely is it that people live the bare minimum? The chance of these families having a bigger tv then me, but no heat, is high. The lifestyle that is expected of Americans in general is ridiculous. It's hard to "Keep up with the Jones" when you struggle to put food on the table, but many make that the priority instead of paying the important bills.
But what if that isn't the case? What if this truly is a family who wears the same clothes every day, and sleeps on the floor with no pillows. It's hard to know what to get teenage boys who typically are into sports, entertainment, music, video games, and girls. DVDs could be an easy gift to give, but is it insulting to give that if they don't have a television and/or DVD player? And consider the fact that a teenage boy in Baltimore City is most likely a grown man, or better, living life in adult situations, what then?
No matter what, the family is in a situation that requires them to seek out help, and I'm glad that we as an office do so. I know I personally appreciate anything that helps me save a buck or two, whether it be soap in my stocking or a bag of my favorite cookies. And whether the family is grateful for what they receive, or turn around and sell their gifts for cash, it's nice to know that we helped out in some shape or form. So maybe it's best to envision them as a good/nice family who is simply struggling to make ends meet instead of other scenerios, because really, isn't that what everyone really is deep down?
