During the holidays, Scientologists join with such organizations as the U.S. Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” to help conduct toy drives and provide entertainment at local hospitals, bringing cheer to ill or needy children and their families.

n important part of helping any community is assisting those who, for one reason or another, have fallen below bedrock and have become disenfranchised by society. Before one can restore a man to literacy or rehabilitate his self respect, it is sometimes more important to first see that he has food in his stomach, a roof over his head or just someone to talk to who feels he is important.

      Like members of all churches, Scientologists are actively involved in a wide range of activities in their communities to help others, from blood drives and emergency relief services with the Red Cross to Walk-a-thons sponsored by the March of Dimes. They also collect holiday toys for foster children and donate food and clothing for families in need.

      The Church of Scientology in Portland, Oregon, is a member of the Board of Directors for the Urban Portland Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers, which provides assistance to elderly members of the community. The Church of Scientology of St. Louis, Missouri, has raised funds for local toy drives, conducted anti-crime campaigns and sent volunteers to entertain at local convalescent homes.

      Perhaps the best index of the workability and effectiveness of individual volunteers' efforts are the attestations and testimonials of groups which have benefited from them – such as one local staff member of the American Red Cross who wrote to a volunteer:

     “We want to thank you and the Church of Scientology of Washington State for leading a fund- raising effort to assist those affected by the earthquake in Japan. Your efforts to provide an outlet for our community to assist others in this time of tragedy is to be commended.”

info@scientology.net

© 1998-2004 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

For Trademark Information on Scientology Services.