Just keep your mind and heart open for opportunities. They're all over the place...

Recession Mama: Things are tough all over. If you think you've got it rough, take a minute and consider how lucky you really are. Now realize you have a responsibility to help those less fortunate.

This doesn't mean signing away your life savings. Try these ways to help that won't break the bank:

• Know those "buy one, get one free" or "free ____ with purchase" deals at the supermarket? Put aside the free whatever, and when you have a shopping bag full, drop it off at a food bank.

• I have three kids and am often buying three of some little thing for them -- socks, fun underwear, a sports water bottle, or a book on clearance somewhere. Well, all year, I just pretend I have four kids and buy one more. Before Christmas, I drop off a basket of that stuff at a local shelter for women with children.

• Before school starts, Staples, Office Depot, and Rite-Aid all have a ton of deals on school supplies. I've picked up two pocket folders free with instant rebate, pencil boxes and crayons for a nickel, and notebooks for a dime. For a couple of bucks, you could change the first day of school for a dozen kids.

• And don't forget the best gift of all -- time.

It's easy. Just keep your mind and heart open for opportunities. They're all over the place...

A former state deputy attorney general and current stay-at-home mom, Recession Mama Michele Ashamalla has three kids and ten years of experience stretching one salary to cover the necessities and more. She's all about saving money whenever you can, so you have it to spend on whatever you want!