I have always made it a point to give to local organizations that make a difference. Some major organizations (such as Myasthenia Gravis) do get donations because they are underfunded. As a former reporter I knew many people displaced or unemployed through no fault of their own. Local support was essential for them to receive groceries, help with heating or rent assistance. Those of us who are able should reach out.

When my money with Madoff disappeared, I wrote to everyone who has come to expect philanthropic gestures from me that, this year, I will be taking stock of my finances and cannot be counted on for my usual donations. However, it hasn’t taken long for me to realize that I am still so much better off than most people that I’d better start giving again. Nonetheless, donations will be smaller and my choice of recipients more selective.

P.S. Miss Manners, I brought up my two children with copies of all your books. That’s why they have beautiful…manners. They particularly liked and often repeat your response to people who show off their suntans: “How nice for you!”

You are absolutely right. People do not seem to understand that if the rich man loses a dollar then the middle man loses two and the poor man loses four. I know all too well, because my granddaughter and I go hungry everyday. Welfare does not do cost of living raises. Every year gets harder and harder. I may not have money; but, I am a smile and compliment millionaire. I send my Shea’s outgrown clothes to the girl upstairs whoose mother is also poor. I can not have processed foods so food pantries are out; but, once in a while I will buy a can of something and donate it or I buy a bottle of water and an apple and quietly drop it off by a sleeping homeless person. I have increased my giving. The harder it gets the more I give. I know too well how much need there is. Every bailout, every tax cut for years has come out of the pockets of the poorest of the poor. It is our programs that get cut to make up those monies. Someday I will find the angel that will help me get my career going and then I will help thousands.