Even if it's been a relatively mild winter, it can feel like winter will never end. And while the harsh weather is inconvenient for many, it can be a major issue for the elderly, disabled, sick and homeless in your community.
If you're of able body and kind heart, you may wonder how you can help your neighbors in need. Here are 13 ways to show you care this season.
- Shovel your neighbor's walkway and/ or driveway. It lets them come and co with ease - plus, it's often the law.
- Brush the snow and ice off their car. (Here are some tips to make it easy.)
- Clear snow off of the street signs, storm sewer grates, fire hydrants and mailboxes if they're covered with snow. It benefits everyone's safety.
- Check on your elderly neighbors before and after a bad snowstorm or cold snap. (bonus points if you bring soup!)
- Leave hand warmers in your mailbox for the mail carrier.
- Offer to pick up a neighbor's groceries or prescriptions. We all know how hard it is to drive on black ice or in a blinding snow storm.
- Offer to get a neighbor's mail if it's at the end of a long drive or on a country road.
- Bring over a baked good or have your kids draw pictures for a neighbor. (Preferably beach scenes!)
- Volunteer at a homeless shelter or food pantry. They tend to be at capacity in the winter as people seek relief from the cold temperatures.
- Donate to a coat drive.
- Donate money to a heating assistance program - often times, you can do so when you pay your heating bill.
- Volunteer for Meals on Wheels or another program that helps the homebound.
- Donate an old (but still working) snow blower or a shovel to a neighbor in need.
Doing any one of these kind deeds could make a world of difference to someone - and studies show that it will benefit you as well!
Today's insurance tips and ideas brought to you by ERIE Insurance.