Winter is a magical time of year. When I see snow flurries, I think of making a snowman, skiing in the mountains, or sitting near a warm, crackling fire at home. But not everyone has these same thoughts. Nearly 3,200 people in Mecklenburg County are homeless. Winter to them means cold conditions and the struggle to keep warm and fed.

What can we as a compassionate society do to help our homeless neighbors? Here are a few ideas: