I'm with you. None of those annoying beggars at the door to bother you coming and going.
I've never been annoyed by a Salvation Army bell ringer.
I think they just stand by their bucket and ring their bell.
Can't remember ever being asked to contribute.
Were you solicited by one?
I've never been asked to donate by a Salvation Army volunteer.
In 2003, Forbes Magazine rated them as one of the most efficient charities with 85 cents of every dollar going to those who needed help. They aren't only around for Christmas and natural disasters but also for everyday needs, including a Missing Persons Service, housing for seniors and alcohol/drug rehabilitation services, along with homeless shelters, hospital visitation and food distribution throughout the year. Unlike most charities, they are run like an army as opposed to a bureaucracy.
The bell-ringers aren't so much beggars as they are reminders about others needing a little help. They've never called me on the phone or try to trick me into donating. They just ring a bell and let your conscience do the talking.
Hopefully you will never need the benefit of Salvation Army
The money collected by "those annoying beggars" served to help a LOT of people in the wake of Hurricanes Rita and Katrina. And they did it in one of the most financially efficient methods of any 501(c)3 charitable organization operating in this country.
But don't feel guilty or anything like that when you walk past them.
Personally, I love the bells, but I can understand how they would annoy some. That said, to call them annoying beggars seems a bit over the top. So, I am going to assume this is satire. Did I get it?
If not, I'm going to step aside for a moment so the ghost of Christmas future doesn't think it was me.