For those of us who gather for winter, this is a good time of year to sort through what remains of our stockpiles. Stamp out Hunger Day was a good opportunity, to not only go through things, but to also help others. If you missed it, or if you still have more to do or want to help more often, keep sorting. So many people can use items that we no longer want, need, or things that we won’t use right away.
Check all the dates and anything that will be out of date by next winter, give away. A local food bank will gladly take your surplus. The truth is that while the end of school can be a very exciting time for kids, it can also be a very difficult time for many families. Those whose children are on the free lunch or reduced meals programs at school, are used to eating breakfast and lunch at school each day. Five more breakfasts and five more lunches each week can really add up for an already struggling family.
Wintertime is of course difficult with heating bills and stuff, but the warmer months can be a very important time to donate, for the above reasons.
Do you have items in your cabinets and pantry that you can do without that might make a big difference for someone else? Another great option is offering to help a friend or family with some organization in exchange for their help in your home. You might also encourage them to donate.
The best part is that you can kill two birds with one stone. You get more organized and you get the satisfaction of knowing that someone else isn’t going hungry. I can hardly think of a better way to spend “chore time.”