One way to help combat hunger is to donate needed shelf-stable foods to your local food bank. While it’s nice to clear your cupboards, it’s even nicer to buy items they really need to help serve the community. The top items include peanut butter (long shelf life, high in protein), low-sugar cereal (high in fiber, long shelf life), canned fruit (kid-friendly and nutritious), pasta (long shelf life, full of fiber and versatile) and most important, canned meat. If you buy one thing in bulk, consider canned tuna or chicken, since both are high in protein, do not need to be refrigerated and can easily be distributed to those in need.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Cats are among the biggest predators of birds and small animals. If you have a cat who is not living indoors full time, take these steps to make sure that they can roam freely and not kill wildlife. First, figure out where your cat likes to roam, sleep and hide. Then place birdbaths and feeders at least 10 feet away from these spots. But if you find neighborhood cats tend to congregate around your bird feeder, consider taking it down. Then focus on planting native vegetation that provides natural feed in the form of seeds and berries. This will make your yard less attractive for a cat’s natural predatory behavior.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you have an old pumpkin that’s decomposing and ready to be tossed away? Before you compost, consider giving backyard wildlife an autumnal feast! According to the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), you can scoop out seeds and just let them dry out naturally. Scatter them in the garden, and large birds and small animals will eat them right up. You can also dice chunks of pumpkin flesh as a nutritious and tasty treat for wild animals. The NWF does remind you to only use unpainted pumpkins, since most paints have toxins that are harmful to animals.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION