With Thanksgiving around the corner, food is (even more than usual) on our minds. For some, the food shopping is a chore; for others, it’s a pleasure.

But for many in our communities, it’s a daily struggle. So while stores are running all those specials on canned and other nonperishable items, I invite you to join me in buying a few extra items to donate to your local food bank or homeless shelter. Those “buy one, get one” deals so many markets are advertising right now make it easy to give — just donate the “get one.” Or use a coupon to buy an extra item. Make some room in your pantry by donating from your stash — the kids can help you choose items. You can fill up a grocery bag in no time. (Some stores are even providing pre-filled grocery bags that you can buy and donate.)

We may not always be aware of those who are hungry in our midst, but they are there. For the past few months, I’ve been volunteering at our local social services agency one morning a week, and I see how bare their pantry shelves are getting. As we prepare to celebrate abundance (and even excess) at Thanksgiving, I hope you’ll agree that sharing with those less fortunate can make our holiday observance even more satisfying — and blessed. The need is great. (And thanks for reading.)

(c) copyright Laura Groch 2013