This blog post comes to you from the inspiration of regular reader, Jeanie, who just happens to be one of the kindest and most generous people I know. Her name is on Santa's nice list in ink.

She pointed out that, given the economic situation, homeless shelters are full and the agencies that help the needy are in desperate straits.  If you can help with a financial contribution, please do.  If money is tight, there are other ways to help.

• When you are cleaning out your cabinets and pantry, set aside some of the canned or non-perishable food you are unlikely to use in the near future and donate it to a food bank.
• Take advantage of buy-one, get-one specials at the grocery stores, with special attention to food bank basics like rice, beans, tuna, and powdered milk.
• If you know that you plan to replace clothing items at Christmas, please consider donating the old ones.  Especially useful are coats, hats, scarves, gloves or mittens, sweaters, and sneakers or heavy shoes.
• Many agencies also accept household goods that they resell in thrift stores. 
• If you have blankets in good shape, many homeless shelters will accept them. 
• If they aren't in the best shape (say they have a small stain or are a bit worn), consider donating them to an animal shelter.  Animal shelters accept blankets, towels, and sheets to help the animals feel cozy and loved.  Due to the foreclosures, animal shelters are extremely full.

None of us alone can do everything, but each of us can do something.  And together, we can make a difference.