Consider 'get one, give one' philosophy

The current economic crisis is impacting more Americans than anything since the Great Depression. Food pantries are feeling the effects as they try to feed more people with dwindling supplies. People who once donated now stand embarrassed in the lines. One could be your neighbor. Like many churches, ours has a box to collect food items that are delivered to the local pantry. Responding to the increased need, the folks in charge recently made a suggestion to our congregation. Your supermarket will often put items on sale as "Two for the Price of One," or "Buy One, Get One Free!" When you see an item that you would normally buy, anyway, they said, take one package or can for yourself and put the other in the food pantry box. All of us who aren't feeling a serious pinch can painlessly make a difference. Might you and/or your church or other organization be able to do this? A lot of people in dire need could be helped by food pantries everywhere if the idea were to spread. Consider making it your New Years resolution to adopt what has become the new motto at our church: "Get one. Give one!"

Dan McGuire

Bensenville