Did you know therhttp://147million.org/give-1/giving-catalog/e are now an estimated 153 million orphans worldwide? The statistics are staggering and they are getting worse every year. Since just 2004, inter-country adoption has decreased 59% (mostly do to increasing country restrictions). That’s why moms like me around the globe are speaking up to advocate for these kids. Many of us have endured the heart-wrenching process to bring one of these kids into a forever home. Many of us have seen with our own eyes the condition of children’s homes in 3rd world countries, and while we are grateful for the care they get, we know it doesn’t compare to the love of a family to call your own. Many of us have witnessed first hand the trauma and night terrors and lifetime of healing as a result of being institutionalized.
Nine years ago, as two moms were going through their first (of many) adoptions together, they accepted the call to speak up for orphans everywhere. And through their organization, 147 Million Orphans, they are doing just that. They help provide basic needs for orphaned children worldwide (food, medical supplies, shelter). They bring awareness to the orphan crisis. And they assist adoptive families with fundraising through sales from their shop.
Not only does 147 Million Orphans have amazing designs in their clothing…but just wearing a simple tee can spark a conversation with a complete stranger about the orphan crisis. And who knows? Maybe God will use THAT MOMENT to open their eyes and do something about it as well.
That’s one of the reasons I choose to Purchase with a Purpose as often as possible. I mean, of course it FEELS good to make a purchase that is helping someone other than yourself. But I also love the opportunity it gives me to share that with someone else. When someone asks me “where did you get that?” I love being able to tell them that when they purchase one too that they are helping someone else.
So friends…I hope this series is giving you some fun ideas as you start your Christmas shopping. I’ve got even more fun stuff to share with you…but if you need ideas sooner than that, please check out my friend Leigh’s blog where she has done several posts on purchasing with a purpose as well.
