Today I was having lunch with a six-year-old. We were talking about how much fun we had over the weekend and how excited we are for our Fourth of July plans. She told me her family was adopting a new dog, and she absolutely could not wait to see him. I told her I have a dog as well, and she talked about all of her other friends who own dogs too. This brought her to think of all the other things she had asked for in the past and received. “I think we’re pretty lucky.” When she said this I couldn’t help but smile because it was more than just the truth; it was a reality. We are very lucky.

We continued to talk about the many great things we’ve been given in our lives so far. It made me feel very fortunate that I could express all of the positive things I have going for me in my life as well. We talked about having a roof over our heads and food in our pantry. How we have parents who continually show us their love by doing their best to provide for us each day. She reminded me that there are many children who do not know these simple pleasures. I was suddenly stunned. A six-year-old was making sure I knew that there are others in the world who have much less. As if I shouldn’t have realized that on my own. But if I’m being completely honest, there are times that I don’t. There are times when we all forget how lucky we truly are.

In the United States alone, more than 565,000 people are homeless each night. Studies show that about one in every 30 American children will be homeless at some point in their life. This number adds up to about 2.5 million children who became homeless each year. The statistics are quite deafening. How can it be that in the land of the free, there are still so many young children who face this unfortunate reality? It breaks my heart to know that millions across the country are suffering. This type of tragedy for children can lead to malnutrition, substance abuse, social disturbances and even prostitution. The impact of homelessness goes beyond constant stress and worry; it encompasses an individual’s entire physical, mental and emotional state.

There are many ways that people who are more fortunate can help out those who have less. One way is by donating your items that you no longer have a use for to a shelter that provides for the homeless. The items generally needed are clothing, toys, or even canned foods or fresh groceries. There is usually an organization that provides housing for the homeless in every town. You can also volunteer at a soup kitchen to help feed those in need. Just a few hours of your time can really make a difference in the life of others. If you are someone who likes to help others directly, you can volunteer to tutor homeless children who cannot afford to go to school. Many shelter organizations have programs that allow for local volunteers to participate in educating the children there. Again, just a little of your time can make the world of a difference for a small soul. Discover more ways you can help out here.