Urban Discoveries Baltimore

image via woody1778a at Flickr

Little can be said here about the recent loss in Haiti. You’ve hopefully found a way to offer some gesture or small contribution to people there. Maybe you’re one of the brave and qualified few who’ve traveled there to help in person, though why you’d be reading this blog eludes explanation. If you still feel, like I do, basically sad and impotent in response to what you’ve seen in the news, then I can recommend a site you may find somewhat useful. My godfather has worked with this group and others in Haiti for years. They are practical and very efficient: www.foodforthepoor.org.

Of course, the ubiquity of Haiti on television, radio, and the internet can, like any well-documented disaster, distract from ongoing pain close to home. While Baltimore’s thankfully not suffered any natural devastation lately, it is a city not wanting for poverty. If the various solstitial celebrations have left you overstuffed with plenty, consider hauling a load of your underused goods to one of the following:

1. The Salvation Army isn’t just about Santa guilt-tripping you into dropping your change in a big, red bucket, it’s also happy to come pick up your donations. For the Baltimore branch, call (410) 525-0530. There are four locations inside the city.
2. Goodwill also has numerous locations in Baltimore, and it’s worth knowing a little more about their model. Goodwill collects, repairs, sells, and distributes various goods with the goal not simply of giving things away, but rather of creating and sustaining jobs for those with disabilities and other obstacles to regular employment. Their slogan: “Not a charity, but a chance.”
3. Finally, if you’re a stubborn localtruist, then you may prefer to donate to the Baltimore Free Storein West Baltimore (1413 W. Baltimore St.). This is exactly what it sounds like, and the guys behind it are still doing good work for the city, but due to an in-process move, they’re not currently accepting donations. You can, however, e-mail them (bmorefree@gmail.com) to find out how you can help.

What will you give away this week?

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image via bitchplz on Flickr

Rachel’s in the Holy Land, and Danny’s still in Kansas, so it falls to me belatedly to address our predicament. It’s a long story, and like most long stories it is dull and involves money. In lieu, then, of a thorough account of UDL’s past year, I’ll just say this: Urban Discoveries Blog exists and will continue to exist, albeit with some changes. We’re still going to write about Baltimore news, events, and perhaps even gossip. This is because we love all of these things and want you to love them just as much. We won’t, however, be spending quite as much time addressing Baltimore real estate.
This is not because we don’t love it. We just think it’s time we both explored some different opportunities. We wish Baltimore real estate nothing but happiness and personal fulfillment. Really. But the most important person here is you. We’re still going to make time for you. We’re going to be at all those games and plays and graduations. We just might be sitting in a different row than Baltimore real estate and her new cardiologist boyfriend who works out. We’re glad they’re both able to make such mature decisions about their lives now.
Back to you. Thank you for reading. We appreciate your curious eyes whether or not you ever leave a comment, but if you do plan on continuing to read this new, slightly… let’s say cozier Urban Discoveries Blog, then this is a meaningful time to let us know. We’ll keep writing if you keep reading. Thanks again.

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