By Jen Rinaldi

After the heavy rain we endured here in Arizona’s White Mountains, major weather events have a way of bringing ordinary blessings into focus: a dry place to sleep, a familiar voice on the phone, someone who cares enough to ask whether we are all right. What we might take for granted on an ordinary day suddenly feels precious.

As we watch reports of this last storm affecting Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico, our relief is mixed with concern for those still facing uncertainty. Being thankful that we made it through does not mean turning away from someone else’s hardship. It means recognizing what we have—and asking how we might share it.

The world can feel as though it is in an uproar, but here at home, neighbors are still neighbors. We check on loved ones and help one another through difficult days. A simple “Do you need anything?” can turn gratitude from a private feeling into an act of kindness.

With election results blaring on the news, that neighborly spirit is worth protecting. We can disagree and still care about the person next door. A campaign sign cannot tell us whether someone is cold, hungry, or worried about making ends meet. We all matter, before the votes are counted and afterward.

Some neighbors, however, are easy to miss. Older residents and veterans living on fixed incomes may have little left for unexpected expenses, and the rains greatly affected many people living off-grid. Their struggles may never make the headlines. When every dollar already has a purpose, replacing wet clothing or finding enough warmth for another chilly night can be a real hardship.

That is where thankfulness asks something of us. Coats, warm clothing, socks, and personal hygiene items can offer comfort and help someone care for themselves. So can a quiet check-in. Ask what would help, listen without judgment, and respect a neighbor’s privacy. No one should have to become a public story to receive a helping hand.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, giving us an opportunity to put that care into practice. Food pantries need help keeping shelves stocked, schools can use paper and pencils, and animal shelters continue caring for animals waiting for homes. Gratitude can take the shape of a bag of groceries, a warm coat, or an hour of our time.

Here in the White Mountains, Fishers of Men for Veterans offers one way to turn that generosity into practical help. Its all-volunteer team provides food boxes, emergency supplies, clothing, blankets, and other essentials, and helps connect veterans with housing and additional resources. Its community coat giveaway also reaches neighbors beyond the veteran community—a reminder that warmth is something we can share.

Surely, something lurks in your closet?

If you would like to give, the organization lists donation drop-off sponsors in Lakeside at J&S Patriot Automotive, 3820 W. White Mountain Boulevard, and Pinetop U-Haul, 3761 W. White Mountain Boulevard. Merry Mountain Market, Sundays in November. Check their website for accepted items and drop-off arrangements: 

https://www.fishersofmenforveterans.com

And if giving money or supplies is not possible, consider volunteering. Fishers of Men welcomes inquiries from people willing to help; call the same number to ask about current opportunities. You do not need a large bank account to make a difference. Your time and willingness to show up may be exactly what is needed.

If you escaped damage and have something to spare, consider paying it forward this season. Give what you can, without measuring your kindness against anyone else’s. A small gift can meet a genuine need, and a thoughtful phone call can remind someone they have not been forgotten.



After the monumental rains we endured, I am thankful for this mountain we call home—and for the people who make it a community. We cannot quiet every storm in the world. But we can check on a neighbor, share what we have, and make sure someone knows they are not alone. That is gratitude made real, at Thanksgiving and all year long.

Other Local Ways to Lend a Hand

Here are a few local charities and community giving opportunities to consider. Call ahead to confirm current wish lists, donation guidelines, and drop-off arrangements.

• Fishers of Men for Veterans: Donate coats, warm clothing, socks, and hygiene items, or ask about volunteering. See the donation locations above and call (928) 369-8455 to confirm current needs. Visit the How You Can Help page for donation and assistance information.

• Humane Society 

of the White Mountains, Lakeside: Donations help care for homeless animals. Ask about supplies, fostering, volunteering, or adoption if you are ready for a long-term commitment. Call (928) 368-5295.

• Pet Allies, Show Low: Support shelter animals through a donation or volunteer time, or consider adopting when the time is right for your household. Call (928) 537-8009.

• White Mountain Catholic Charities, Lakeside: Help the food bank with canned and nonperishable foods or a monetary donation. It also accepts clean clothing in good condition, blankets, and other essentials. 

Call (928) 367-2244.

• White Mountain Helping Hands, Vernon: 

Its year-round food pantry drive welcomes food donations. Call (928) 200-8919 to coordinate 

what to give and where to bring it.

• Local schools: Contact a school office about donating paper, pencils, notebooks, and other classroom basics. Ask for a current supply list so your gift goes where it is most useful.