Dear Traveler, Three weeks ago I issued a challenge, and got a great response. Thanks so much to the 1,661 travelers who've responded so far to my Christmas fundraiser for Bread for the World. Together, you've contributed $214,628. And with my double match of $429,256, collectively, we've raised $643,884 to help power Bread for the World's work in explaining to Congress the needs of our nation's poor, homeless, and hungry people. This is nearly two-thirds of our $1 million goal. Help us reach it today by making a donation. Bread for the World has been very effective in its advocacy work encouraging our government to not cut vital services to our nation's most needy. With all the talk about budget cuts and tax reform these days, this message is more timely than ever. Bread also understands that, at a time when refugees and instability in the poor world have a direct impact on America, our government's trade policies have a huge bearing on struggling people south of our border. Bread explains to our representatives how legislation can be both good for our hearts and good for our national security. If you care about these issues, Bread gets it done. In addition to my personal 2-to-1 matching challenge, I promised to thank those contributing $100 or more with a special Christmas gift of my European Christmas book, DVD, and CD (or my Complete Collection DVD Box Set). So far, we've mailed thank you packages to more than 1,600 of you. While donations so far equal last year's campaign, we're still about $135,000 short of our 2018 goal of $350,000. But there's good news: There's still time to join us. If you'd like to help us reach this exciting goal, donate by December 10. I'll pop your gift into the mail within 24 hours and you'll get it before Christmas! To make a donation, visit Bread for the World's website. Thanks so much for making 2018 a very expensive Christmas for me. Giving like this, in partnership with caring travelers like you, makes my work even more gratifying than it already is. Happy holidays and merry Christmas to all. Rick Steves P.S. My friends at Bread for the World are thrilled! They send their thanks and share their determination to honor your gifts by working hard and smart to transform this contribution into effective action in Washington D.C. To learn more about their impressive work, visit www.bread.org. This is the compassionate spirit of America in action this holiday season. |