Well this seemed like a good idea anyway. The HPL set off happily for work on Monday armed with a bunch of magazines to drop off at my local NHS doctor’s surgery. I imagined the smiles on flu-ridden faces as they realised the latest copy of “Elle” was waiting for them. However, I walked in, asked if they wanted some magazines for their waiting room and got a resounding “no”. So that was that.
I wasn’t going to post this story because obviously its pretty rubbish. However, the important moral is to always call first before you try to donate things – I’ve had the same problem with hostels who were full up with clothes and didn’t want any more. But I’m pretty sure there must be some local doctor’s surgeries, hospitals or hospices out there who want your spare mags – isn’t a guilty fix of celebrity gossip the only joy of the waiting room experience?
I’d love some ideas for more small charitable acts (preferably those that aren’t rejected outright by potential beneficiaries) as the charitable side of HPL is sadly lacking. In December, I donated toiletries to St Mungos and this weekend we’re giving a collection of clothes and toys to the Christian Alliance homeless hostel in Southwark. I’ve also applied to be a befriender at Lambeth Age Concern, and my application is being considered right now.
But these are quite time-consuming things, and I’m not managing to do something every month. So, I’m going to come up with a new idea for a small charitable act every month from now on (with suggestions from you I hope) that may inspire you too!
