Crisp morning air and light frost on windshields the past few mornings have hinted that the end of summer might be drawing near. But while we may be enjoying the reprieve from the heat and excitement of rediscovering our winter wardrobes, there are those in and around our state for whom the cold elicits nothing but dread.

Not too far away from us, thousands of homeowners face winter with uncertainty looming as they try to recover what they can from two major hurricanes that brought flooding, wind and tornadoes to their communities.

Throughout the country there are those without a permanent place to live and others who cannot afford the additional costs of heating their homes to a comfortable temperature. More still will face difficult choices between utilities, medication and food.

Mississippians, however, are well known for their generosity, and there are numerous programs available to help those in need. Many utility companies and nonprofit organizations offer programs to help residents pay their bills, and food pantries help families bridge the gap between what is needed and what is affordable. Shelters and warming centers give those without housing a place to get out of the cold.

Yet, even as these programs seem to stretch the dollar to unimaginable limits, they still need our help to meet the needs of their clientele during the winter season. Whether financially or physically, community support is a critical component of meeting the needs of some of our country’s most vulnerable people.

According to a report from the United States Department of Agriculture, a national network of food banks and pantries, more than 47 million people, including 14 million children, faced food insecurity in 2023. In Mississippi, an average of 16.2% of households experienced moderate to severe food insecurity from 2021-2023.

As the temperatures continue to drop, the turkeys go on sale and Christmas shopping becomes ever more frantic, keep in mind those in our community who don’t have the luxury of stepping into a warm house or car to escape the cold and for whom debates over turkey or ham are overshadowed by uncertainty they will eat at all.

If possible, consider supporting some of our local nonprofit organizations that work to provide such help where it’s needed. Donations of either time or money can make a difference where it is needed most and help one more person enjoy the comforts of daily life we often take for granted.