November is a Food Month!

Happy Tuesday Everyone,

At the outset, we think of November as an election month, but after that, when the dust has settled, it's all about Thanksgiving and putting a focus on what we are grateful for.  This is the big one folks!  We've been talking about cultivating gratitude a lot recently in our quest to stay mentally well during these times but finally, a season where gratitude is front and center!  

For many people, one big thing to be grateful for is the healthy food that nourishes us each day.  As Thanksgiving awaits us, many have begun to think about the feast that will be on the table this year.  Whether it be small with your immediate family or just a tiny bit bigger with people from your core group (keep it under 10 folks - Governor's orders), I always hope that everyone has what they need and want on Thanksgiving.  

Unfortunately, this isn't always the case.  There are many families in VT that regularly struggle with food insecurity, not to mention during these times when we put a focus on more lavish and expensive meals.  Last weekend, my husband and I were talking about grocery shopping at Trader Joe's in South Burlington vs. the larger more mainstream stores and places like Costco.  One of us must have mentioned the average cost of a trip to Costco and my son exclaimed from the back seat.  "What!  You pay that much for groceries?"  Most kids don't have a good concept of how much it costs to feed a moderate-sized family each week, and of course, every family spends differently, but I'll generalize by saying it's not cheap!  

Thanksgiving and holiday time, in general, can be a real emotional stressor for many because it's hard to think about the things your family (and potentially your kids) might have to do without.  I have written a fair amount in these blog posts about how giving back to others is a way to help yourself feel better during stressful times, so I would ask you to consider if you or your family is able, how you can give back this holiday season.  Here are some ways you can help.  

• Purchase a meal box or other non-perishable items at your local grocery store and add them to the donation boxes for families in need.  
• Donate to your local food shelf
• Volunteer your time at an organization that needs volunteers such as the senior center, the food shelf, or a local food kitchen (although volunteering this year is tough because of covid, there may be ways to help.  Call your local agency to ask).
• Knit hats, mittens, or scarves for a mitten tree in our area.  (WCAX usually hosts one each year).
• Sign up to "adopt" a family this holiday season and work with your caregivers to purchase food/gifts for that family.  The local churches usually support these programs.  
• Send letters or care packages to soldiers overseas.
• Make homemade decorations and help an elderly neighbor decorate.  
• Help neighbors by raking leaves and clearing snow this season...just one less thing they need to worry about!  
• Give the gift of your time by sitting down to talk and share stories with family and friends (put that phone down)!
• Invite someone who can't be with family this year to join your family (again, think about COVID restrictions, but maybe it can work out! Virtual dinner anyone??? 🤞).  

With any of these ideas, please work with your parents or caregivers to make sure they fit into your family's goals and the safety restrictions that are currently in place in VT.  I would encourage you to be creative this year, as I am sure you can find a way to help if you desire!    Remember the reason behind the season is gratitude.  Let's all make sure that every family gets an opportunity to eat like this little guy this holiday season! 

  

Enjoy your day everyone!

Mrs. Hempey