We often think of Thanksgiving as a joyous time when we gather together with family and friends. We share food and drink, laughter and, most importantly, our time with each other.

On such an occasion, it’s hard to imagine that in nearby Haiti, countless people are homeless, starving and have little hope for a better life. Because their day-to-day survival has become so grueling, most Haitians cannot adequately care for themselves or their children, who often suffer from severe malnutrition and dehydration.

This Thanksgiving, Food For The Poor wants to offer these destitute Haitians hope through a life-changing experience. Our 40 Days of Thanks project focuses on Haiti’s children and elderly, who are some of the most vulnerable members of society.

Beginning seven weeks before Thanksgiving, 40 Days of Thanks uses a simple method of fundraising: we’re asking each family to set aside 50 cents a day for 40 days and place the money in a box or basket. At the end of the 40 days, your gift is combined with the gifts of others, and that money can help bring relief and hope to those who are in need, or make your gift today. The spirit of thanksgiving will then be expressed through our “thankful giving!”

By sharing our gifts with others, we can make an enormous difference in their lives.