The economy is hard, but standing on a corner begging for money these days is harder, in part because global warming has made it so damn cold.  So, when you don't have enough to get your kids some toys for Christmas, what do you do?  (If your answer was to humble yourself and ask for help from family and friends, you're wrong.  If your answer was to tighten your belt and hit a thrift store, you're wrong.  If your answer was to go to a reputable charity, tell them your woes, and ask for help - guess what!? - you're wrong.)  The newest and greatest way to get your kids what they want for Christmas when you're broke?  Beg for charity ... on the intertubes! 

"Our family is in need of some help this holiday.  With both parents out of work and back in school, our kids may not have a Christmas this year," writes Bridget Newberry, a 28-year-old mother of two from Lawrenceburg, Ky.  The photo on the listing shows Bridget and her husband, Alan Rice, with their two children.  "I will send you a hand-written thank you note for any donation, as long as you include your address & name.  Thank you and God bless you."

Another "item" for sale came from a poster who said she is a single mother of two.

"I am a single mom with a 9-year-old girl and a 4-year-old boy.  I work part time at a gas station and I don't get much for help.  I usually plan everything ahead but this year has not left me with many options.  My car broke down 4 weeks ago and the repairs are quite high," she writes.  The ad includes a picture of a humble decorated Christmas tree.  "Please contact me if you are willing to donate a present for my kids.  If you do not have time, I made a 'buy it now' in another auction for presents.  I would love to see them have a nice Christmas."

And still another from a man who's asking for help in Chico, Calif., under the listing: "Help make Christmas Possible for two Children." 

"Single dad raising two children.  Just spent all our money to get an apartment.  We are asking for a little help to make Christmas possible this year for my two children.  I don't work right now.  My son was born premature with chronic lung disease and requires 24/7 care.  We are asking for donations.  Anything is appreciated.  Thank you."

Aside from the totally obvious potential for this to be a big giant scam, it violates the eBay ToS, which state that you have to actually be selling something to participate in their auction site.  I know.  Weird, isn't it. 

I know this whole post is making me seem like a bitchy grinch (and, well, I kind of am), but for me, it's all about donating time and money to local charities with a track record of not screwing you, or to just donate to people you actually know who need your help.

Posted by: Ember at 09:40 PM | Comments (6) | Add Comment
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