A History of Charitable Work

A History of Charitable Work

Pull up a chair and sit awhile

October 19, 2026

Dear Friend:

During the Great Depression, my grandmother had an empty chair outside her front door. The empty chair was a signal that she would feed you if you needed a meal. The only thing she asked of you was that you say Grace with her.

And she never stopped helping people who were hungry, even after the Depression ended.

Across the country, people found different ways to help those in need. In some communities, symbols were said to identify homes where a hungry traveler might receive a meal. Other people found quiet ways to help struggling neighbors without calling attention to their circumstances.

Some housewives would leave food, such as biscuits or cornbread wrapped in cloth, on their front steps after dark. This allowed someone who was hungry to take what they needed without having to ask for help face-to-face.

My grandmother's empty chair was one family's way of offering kindness to someone who needed it. And in my family, that spirit of charity did not stop with her.

My father volunteered with Junior Achievement. He didn't talk about it much. My mother was the one who told us about his volunteer work. He even kept the little tables that were made and sold through the program.

My aunt, my dad's sister, had two young children. Her husband was away fighting in World War II. In addition to caring for her children and her home, she also looked after my grandparents. Yet she still found time to fold bandages for the Red Cross.

Then there was my mother, who did her own share of volunteer work. She volunteered at church and school and later gave her time to the local Catholic hospital.

When my turn came, I also volunteered at a hospital as a Candy Striper. Like my aunt, I folded bandages, too. Later, I volunteered at church and school, following the example my mother had set.

Looking back, I realize that helping others was something I saw throughout my childhood. My family members didn't all volunteer in the same way, but each found a way to give something of themselves to others.

Today, there are many opportunities to volunteer in our communities. Charitable organizations play an important role in the lives of so many people, but helping others doesn't always require joining an organization. Sometimes it means giving a few hours of your time, helping a neighbor, or offering a meal to someone who needs one.

If you have never volunteered, perhaps this is the time to consider it. There are people in every community who could use a helping hand, and there are many ways to make a difference.

My grandmother had her empty chair. My father, aunt, and mother each found their own way to serve others. In time, I found mine.

Perhaps the greatest gift my family passed down to me was the understanding that we all have something we can give.

Until next time, stay well, stay safe, and stay connected to those you love.

Be well,

Emma

Emma is the voice behind Sharing with Seniors, where every story starts with a memory. Through stories of family, friendships, music, traditions, hometowns, and life's simple pleasures, she invites readers to pull up a chair, stay awhile, and remember the moments that have shaped their lives.