Recently, I've been coping with the state of the world with musical theater as a form of self-care. It's a collaborative endeavor that brings the community together and helps us persevere in the tough times. In the musical Annie, it takes place in the depression era of Hoovervilles and massive economic insecurity. The subplot is a wealthy billionaire lobbies for change and opens his home to those in need.

While much of that story seems far-fetched these days, the context of it isn't. The reality is that right now our friends and neighbors are struggling to survive and have basic needs met. We don't have a "New Deal for Christmas" coming this year, but we DO have each other and organizations like the food bank that can help. If you're able, please donate what you can to this fundraiser for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. If you are not affected by food insecurity, I guarantee someone you know, love, and care about is.

I'm doing all I can to raise awareness and funds for the Food Bank and to help power my community to end hunger. Every $1 donated provides 2 nutritious meals to people facing hunger in Western Massachusetts.