“CARE is a global cultural icon. Did you know the phrase CARE Package entered the English language because of them? In 1945, they invented the CARE Package as a way for Americans to send lifesaving food and supplies to a Europe flattened by World War II. Their CARE Packages were so popular they became a synonym for the thoughtful gifts people send to far-away friends and loved ones.”
Did you know how the phrase “care package” entered the vernacular? I had no idea it was from this organization, and I had no idea it came about as a way to help a devastated Europe to feed their hungry! I will certainly think differently when I send my son a care package at sleep away camp this summer. He will be getting art supplies, I may have to call it something else, we are very lucky to be nowhere near needing a care package. And I don’t want to demean the phrase now that I know where it comes from!
To write this post I have learned how CARE listens to the needs of the people it is trying to help. Going in and railroading a group to “help ” them is not the same as asking them how they can be helped. Having them invested and participating in the process is important. When I hear about the lasting solutions that CARE works towards, I think about the old adage (and I am paraphrasing here) about giving a man a fishing pole so he can continue to fish and feed himself, rather than just handing him one meal. That is a smart solution.
I encourage you to read the various articles on the CARE Knows How page to see how innovative CARE is! I was fascinated to find out how in the Ecuadorian cloud forest, CARE was able to help families learn how to use fog to collect water to save time and energy, with materials provided by CARE. They did not have to go down a mountain and then back up with heavy water pails, the water was already close by in the form of fog. These same folks helped make these farmers self sufficient by showing them how to protect their crops against unexpected frosts, and how to make their own safe, organic fertilizer. Wow. This family can now produce enough to feed themselves and have some left over to sell at market. The additional benefit is a feeling of independence! I loved reading how CARE really does care, especially the way they literally used the air around these people to help them!
I urge you to visit the CARE Knows How page and leave me a comment and tell me what inspires you! You can also donate any amount you like to help folks from all around the world! Everything helps!
Disclosure: This article is sponsored by CARE.org.
CARE is a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty with a commitment to empowering women and girls. CARE is committed to its mission to serve individuals and families in the poorest communities in the world.. CARE seeks a world of hope, tolerance and social justice, where poverty has ben overcome and people live in dignity and security.
CARE facilitates lasting change by:
• Strengthening capacity for self-help
• Providing economic opportunity
• Delivering relief in emergencies
• Influencing policy decisions at all levels
• Addressing discrimination in all its forms
Just went over to really look at their site. It is amazing all that they do. I always knew they were a great and worthy organization–now I am positive. I have given to them in the past and will again in the future.
Excellent article! I learned a lot. I had no idea where the term care package came from either, but I can remember my Grand Mom (and Mom) always taking them very seriously and putting extra special care in to each one they packed. I visited the CARE site and got swept up in the feel good awesomeness of what this organization is doing. Wow! Thank for sharing.
Thanks Mitch for making us aware of this. Learned so much from your article and heading right to the CARE site to find out how I can do even more
I love their microfinance program! Sometimes it really is just a matter of a small loan to make a huge difference. Thanks for posting this.
I actually did know the origin of the “care package”. The article you have written is very informative for those that didn’t. I’m thrilled to see the awareness and exposure you are raising for such an inportant and inspiring organization. Thank you!
I found this so interesting. They really do so much and I went over to their site and learned even more. They seem like a great organization to donate to as so many people are helped and given such hope.
Thought provoking article Makes you think I can help.
I like that they take consideration to find out exactly what type of help is needed. The difference that can make with quality of help is amazing. This sounds great, Mitch. I’m headed over to learn even more.
OK, I definitely learned something new today. I had no idea that is where that phrase came from. Glad they are helping others in need and empowering women and girls.
You know I never thought about the origin of the phrase care package myself. I had no idea that it came from an organization!
CARE is new to me and sounds like an awesome organization. It’s definitely something that aligns with my values and I want to support.
It’s Organizations like this that strengthen our families and make the world go around. I applaud you for a well-written article and for them for doing such good in the world.