I was in Milan in October and was particularly rude to a Senegalese gentleman who "gave" me a handmade bracelet. He tried to strike up a conversation with me about America and our culture, and was just trying to eek out a living in a strange land. He only asked for a pittance in return for his work and friendliness, and I was jet-lagged and in a not-very-pleasant mood (and I took the bracelet, but didn't give him any money). I felt really bad about my reaction for the rest of my trip.
Well, since I got back, my dog got cancer, my truck broke, and my job is now in the balance. This is not a country song.
I'd like to make amends. What is a responsible charity I could donate a bit o' Holiday cheer to to help people like this bracelet-maker? I never give money to "beggars" in Europe, because I‘ve been told that there are better ways to help. But I’m not sure what those ways are…