'Tis the season

Unemployment is up. Salaries are down. And the U.S. Department of Agriculture just released a report that found more than 16 percent of Americans lacked dependable access to adequate food last year. That is to say, 49 million people in the United States faced what the government refers to as “food insecurity.” That’s 13 million more than in 2007 – a 36 percent increase.

The recession has definitely adversely affected the number of Americans that will get to sit down this week with a 20-something pound turkey. If you’re one of those people who is so lucky, consider doing some small things to help those who aren’t as fortunate.

Helping those in need this season doesn’t need to be difficult or time-consuming. In fact, you can make a big difference through simple actions – you just need to keep goodwill and charity in mind.

Next time you run to Kroger, consider purchasing food for a hungry family; the checkout offers simple $1, $3 and $5 donations that you can tack on your grocery bill.

Or gratify the Salvation Army folks who dedicate their entire day to annoying shoppers with their bells and give them your spare change on the way out. Donate last year’s three-sizes-too-large sweater from Grandma to Goodwill. Drop off some canned goods at Hoosier Hills Food Bank. Volunteer a few hours of your time.

Small actions like these can make a huge difference for those people who are suffering – and more people are suffering through the holidays this year because of the state of the economy. The food insecurity numbers released by the United States Department of Agriculture are the highest they’ve ever been since reporting began in 1995.

Keep others in mind and take whatever steps you can, even very small ones, to help others. After all, it is the season.