'Tis the Season

Do not forget the disadvantaged as the cold winter winds howl each day. Now is a great time to go through your closets and get rid of those old winter coats that you never wear anymore as well as hats, scarfs and gloves. Donate them to the local thrift store in your area; preferably the stores ran by volunteers since they are more focused on helping the needy directly in the nearby communities rather than the bigger commercialized thrift stores that are busy shoving money in their pockets. Disadvantaged kids will appreciate a new coat that they can buy for a dollar or two that will keep them warm at the bus stop.

While you are at it, clean out the pantry and get rid of all those cans of vegetables and fruit that you never plan on eating. Throw in a few cans of things you like as well since you can go buy more for yourself. Drop that bag off at the local food bank. The poor, disadvantaged and lower middle class will appreciate it. Typically, you should be able to drop off the winter coats, clothes and canned goods all at the local thrift store in your area, if not, the blue-haired gal's there will be glad to provide you with information.

At the thrift store that Keystone helps out, all the folks volunteer their time. We have long tables that stretch about 33 feet (10 m) where bread, buns, muffins and baby food from the food bank are stacked 3 feet (1 m) high free to those in need. Within two days, it is all gone and we have to restock. There are many hard-working families that appreciate the help.

Happy New Year to all and Good Luck in 2019.