Something to consider on these cold, cold days

Often when schools close, parents have to stay home, too, because they don't have a daycare alternative. Many of these parents don't have the option of working from home, and don't get paid for the time away. This can cause considerable hardship for their households.

That's why you should consider throwing an extra can or two into your grocery basket for your local food pantry. After the holidays, contributions tend to dry up because charitable giving just isn't top of mind anymore. But now is when the need may be greater. (If you don't know where the pantry is in your neighborhood, here's a food bank locator.)

I'm happy to report that, in my neighborhood, the local visitor's center is now accepting donations. It's open seven days a week, so it's easier than going directly to the food pantry. It's also more comfortable. The food pantry only has volunteers available to accept non-perishables during the same hours that it gives out the food, and it can feel a little awkward -- pushing past those waiting for their distribution to make a donation.