Winter Hints for Helping

I know not everybody loves Facebook, but I think it’s pretty great. Especially since I’ve taken up a new challenge there. It’s called the 15 Can Challenge. It’s easy because it’s something you already do. Each week when you go shopping buy a few extra cans of food. Then the first week in December, contribute it to the local food pantry for their holiday dinners for the hungry. If you have the time, it’s a good idea to call them first and see what they are especially in need of, sometimes it’s something you may never think of, like peanut butter for PBJs, but that’s a great staple because of the protein benefits it has.

I regret not doing Socktober, which is a Kid President Challenge in October to provide socks for the homeless. But it’s not too late. Luckily, I live in Florida and we’ve only had a few days of cold weather. If you live somewhere that’s cold many months of the year, you know how that can be. Imagine being out in the cold night after night, or even in a shelter. It would be great to have some creature comforts. Local shelters and homeless providers need your help. Again, it’s better to call them and ask for what they need. They are the experts and they know what has already been donated by corporate or other sponsors. Gather the items and then have a packing party. You can get large plastic bags and pack them with necessities and add a personal note as well.

I’ve shared that I like to make and give out personal packs which aren’t so much for the homeless as for the depressed during this season when many miss their lost or estranged loved ones or just suffer from depression because of seasonal affective disorder, where the lack of sunlight can contribute to mood. The packs I make have a few fun items and the following explanation:

Survival Kit

Sometimes we need a little help to make it through. Here is a survival kit for you.

Included are:

A clothes pin so you can keep it all together.

A penny so you never have to say you’re broke.

A marble so you’ll never have lost them all.

Plenty of hugs and kisses (feel free to enjoy them)

Most importantly, a cross, so you’ll know that someone has had it harder than you

and He wants to show you how much He loves you.

The hugs and kisses are the chocolate kind. I'm a white chocolate nut so I have to include the hugs!

I also have done a Black Friday list since I started the blog in 2011 of things that you can buy for presents that give three ways—to the recipient, the giver and a charity. I will post that by Thanksgiving. Also, don't forget Giving Tuesday, a day after all the shopping and thanksgiving to give back. Take care and God Bless!