With its many cultures, languages and traditions, the United States has long been considered a melting pot. As the holiday season approaches, perhaps it can be compared to a pot roast: each recipe has its own flavors, textures and ingredients, just as each community has its own ideals and beliefs. Still, most would agree that a few key ingredients — tolerance, acceptance and compassion — are essential.

What is no secret, however, is how dramatically the economy has shifted since the pandemic. Many have watched friends, neighbors and strangers face one hardship after another. As incomes change for any number of reasons, those challenges often continue to grow.

This can be seen in the lengthening lines at food banks and soup kitchens, and in homeless shelters stretched beyond capacity. Domestic violence and shoplifting cases have risen, often tied to desperation born from hunger and poverty. As William Shakespeare wrote, “From ancient grudge break to new mutiny; from civil blood makes civil hands unclean.” How can peace be expected when so much feels beyond our control?

With the value of a dollar shrinking, countless people have turned to alternative means of survival. Some now live in vehicles or RVs. Motels and campgrounds have become long-term housing options. Renting a room can be easier than finding even a small apartment, with high rents and steep credit and income requirements. Motels, on the other hand, typically require no credit check, no job verification and no large deposits — a reality that forces many to get creative in order to have a place to stay.

The recent delay in releasing SNAP benefits added to the strain. More than 41 million people were left panicked when they faced receiving no food assistance for November and December — right as several major religions observe holidays that involve family gatherings and shared meals.

The winter months also bring rising utility costs. Whether it’s propane, electricity or gas, thousands face potential shutoffs due to financial hardship. Even solar energy, while cost-effective in the long run, can be expensive to install. Many families are forced to ask a painful question: “Do we heat our home, or do we buy food?” Programs such as LIHEAP, PCAP and WARM offer help, but their funds are quickly exhausted.

In Juniata and Mifflin counties, a variety of resources are available to help residents. A monthly food distribution calendar is available at mifflincountypa.gov/human-services/food-calendars.

Juniata County also has a food pantry not listed on the calendar, which can be reached at (717) 436-9718. Lighthouse Community Church in Mifflintown offers free clothing, housewares, nonperishable food, shoes and toys Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m., resuming Jan. 8. Coat giveaways and food boxes are also available on the third Saturday of each month at noon, resuming Jan. 17. For details, contact the Hope Line at (717) 320-6312.

In Mifflin County, Kish Church provides free weekend meal backpacks on Fridays to Lewistown Intermediate School students. The church also distributes monthly hygiene packs and meal boxes at Kish Elementary to students and staff; referrals are required. Cancer support care bags are also available. For more information, call (717) 667-2500.

This list is not exhaustive. Additional resources are available through county assistance offices or by dialing 211. Pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women with children younger than 5 can contact 1-800-WIC WINS for support. The Nurse’s Pantry is also available at mjunitedway.org.