Back in the pioneer days, helping a less fortunate neighbor was as common as supporting your own family.

In today's society, financial hardship is equated with failure. No one wants to be a "charity case" by accepting handouts, and pride can prevent neighbors from experiencing the camaraderie and compassion of prior generations. Using a little creativity, we can provide our neighbors with assistance while also protecting their pride.

1. Give the gift of entertainment. One of the first items to get axed from the family budget is entertainment. If you know a family is going through hard economic times, invite them to accompany you to a movie, concert, or sporting event. If you can't afford that expense, invite your neighbors over for a themed movie or game night. Because you're enjoying the event along with your neighbors, the gesture will most likely not be perceived as a handout.

2. Share gardening expenses. If a neighbor's garden becomes unkempt, they could feel badly because it's clear that they can't afford basic gardening services. Without being obvious, look for ways to share gardening expenses. If a shared fence needs to be repaired, offer to pick up the tab this year. If you share a planter or a yard with a neighbor, fill the planter with flowers and position your sprinkler to cover their portion of the yard. This quiet gesture is sure to be appreciated by neighbors that are struggling financially.

3. Explore carpooling options. Do you commute to the same location as your neighbor? Carpooling does two things: it allows your neighbor to save on commuting expenses and it provides time for you to develop a relationship with them.

4. Give a little extra on special occasions. Is your neighbor expecting a baby? Tuck an extra gift card into your gift to them. Is your neighbor sick? Bring over five casseroles instead of one or two. Because it's standard to give gifts to people in certain situations, giving a little extra will be perceived as generosity, not pity.

5. Look beyond your neighbor's material needs. Families who are struggling financially always have needs over and above monetary needs. As you get to know your neighbors, they may open up to you about what's driving their financial needs. Perhaps the father was recently laid off or the mother is attending school full-time. Whatever the situation, you may know someone (who knows someone) who can help this family get back on their feet. Look to your network of contacts for job or babysitting leads.

6. Share your possessions with your neighbors. Do you own a swimming pool, camping equipment, timeshare opportunity, or other resource that could benefit a struggling family? As you develop a relationship with your neighbors, offer your possessions for their use as they face lean times.

One of the gifts of helping neighbors is that the exchange is mutually beneficial. By giving of yourselves, you will receive the gift of friendship in return.

Learn more about this author, Kristen M. Anderson.
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